June 20, 2024

Back in the Day: When attending annual town meeting was the in thing! P5B

Trip to Nationals: Local gymnasts perform well at California competition, P5A

“I think journalism gets measured by the quality of information it presents, not the drama or the pyrotechnics associated with us,” — Bob Woodward

‘Bullying, it needs to stop’

Manager was on verge of resigning

By Wayne E. Rivet Staff Writer HARRISON — Cass

Newell nearly reached a breaking point.

“The

despite a fire study recommendation.

Voters again reject FT chief Reval concerns lead to cost cuts

By Wayne E. Rivet Staff Writer

— Fearing

HARRISON

a potential tax bill hike as the result of a revaluation, citizens slashed some money articles to last year’s level during last week’s Harrison annual town meeting.

Voters also rejected hiring a full-time fire chief,

With over 150 people in attendance at the Harrison Elementary School gym, resident Peter Brown set the cost-cutting mood early when he proposed to amend a proposed $794,690 for Administration to $735,847 — last year’s level. The line’s $58,843 included a wage increase for office staff. The town manager’s salary is included in the wages total.

One citizen questioned why the Administration account was up 8% while other departments were in the 4 to 5.7% range.

Town Manager Cass Newell explained. “Every department is different.

Spot designated as launch point

By Wayne E. Rivet Staff Writer

One suggestion coming from the Open Space survey was to create more access points to local lakes and pond. So, the new Open Space Committee (OSC) proposed to create a launch point for canoes, kayaks and other crafts not requiring motors or trailers on Sabatis Island, off the Moose Pond Causeway.

OPC member Matt Markot said the launch point is located to the left of an existing picnic spot outfitted with a wooden pavilion (found to the right upon entry to the island).

“There’s a really nice sandy area that we think would be a great candidate to designate specifically as a hand-carried launch site,” Markot told the Select Board

By Wayne E. Rivet Staff Writer

With fewer than 70 people in the Town Hall, citizens asked a few questions regarding a steep hike in ambulance service costs and a breakdown of proposed capital expenditures at last week’s Bridgton annual town meeting.

last month. “This issue right now is that if all of the day sites are being used, which happens pretty frequently in the summer because it’s such a great place to be, there’s no place to launch a canoe or a kayak. You have to go to the “motorized” launch on the other side of Route 302, which is not ideal because of busy traffic issues.”

Signs will be installed at the new Sabatis Island launch area, designating it as a launch site as well as informing the public where it is and where to park.

Different points of wage for every department. Number of employees for each department is different. Health insurance for each department is different. It’s all different.” Select Board Chairman Matt Frank added that paying employees’ health insurance has been “policy for decades.”

Citizens approved Brown’s amendment, and voted 83-68 to stay at last year’s figure.

Brown then tried to keep the Public Works line at last year’s level, $842,838 rather than approve a $48,286 increase to $891,124. The amendment failed 60-89, and the recommended figure was approved.

There was no debate regarding the full-time fire chief proposal with citizens clearly rejecting the move, indicated by a sea of red ballot cards raised.

When asked to place $200,000 in a Capital Reserve Fund earmarked to purchase a new fire truck, a variety of questions regarding whether the town needed a third truck to whether repairs and/or buying “used” might be options.

Frank said Engine 4 is nearly 20 years old and at its “end of life,” while Engine 3 is about 5 years old. Engine 2 is a tanker truck, purchased in 1927, and “it’s basically for parades.” A key element is

ACCESS POINT TO MOOSE POND — To the left of this picnic pavilion on Sabatis Island will be a designated launch area for canoes, kayaks and SUPs.

Officials said one issue that has occurred at that location is individuals parking vehicles blocking the area to gain some privacy. That practice will no longer be allowed. Officials pointed out there is ample parking upon entering the island area, and that folks utilizing the site where the launch is located may need to take a short walk.

Harassment and bullying via social media, as well as incidents at her home she found as threatening her personal safety, pushed Newell to seriously consider resigning as Harrison’s town manager last week.

bullying and harassment need to stop, not just with me with others too. Someone is going to get hurt. Those people need to know we’re not going to stand for bullying on any level.”

In an emotional conversation with citizens attending last Thursday’s Select Board meeting, Newell said, “Forgive me, this is hard for me. The level of harassment I have received is not a joke. My safety has been compromised. I have been followed more times than I can count. It’s all documented. One of our deputies actually witness an incident that occurred. It obviously changes how I do things when this occurs...This has been going on for a long time. I don’t need sympathy. That’s not what I’m trying to elicit...I thought it was time that I said something because if it exists with me, it can exist with the staff and any of you. I feel like if someone is willing to do that to me, then they’re willing to do it to the rest of you. That’s not fair. I wouldn’t feel like I was doing right by this town by not saying something, especially if somebody actually got hurt.”

Police reports have been filed. Incidents have been captured on surveillance cameras.

“I am here because I want to do what is best for this town. I don’t always get it right. Often, I get it wrong, but I also feel like in that same sentence, I hear it all the time, you’re at the top and the blame goes to the top. I am also blamed for breathing, that’s how I feel,” she said.

Dollar General proposal tabled; site walk requested

By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer

NAPLES — Less than a week ago was the first time some planning board members saw the paperwork involved in an application for a Dollar General to be built in Naples.

On the evening of the meeting, the company presenting the plans altered the building sketch by adding details that had been mentioned by citizens. Those included real windows instead of faux shutters and a cupola on the rooftop.

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Showdown with Wildlife — Selectman

Paul Tworog asked what the town plans to do about geese at Highland Lake

“We’re not recommending creating a new site, we’re just taking advantage of an area that’s already there and using some signage to direct people on how to use the area,” Markot added.

On Tuesday, the Naples Planning Board tabled the major site plan application submitted by Dollar General to develop one of its stores on the property between Gary’s Olde Towne Tavern and Moose Landing Marina. Dan Craffey owns that unpaved piece of land that Dollar General is seeking to develop. He was not present at the planning board meeting.

Main-Land Development Consultants President and Senior Chief Engineer Bob Berry presented the plan as it was laid out in the application. He highlighted some of the changes.

“We are making some concessions,” Berry began. “Originally, we were doing faux shutters. But people said they’d like windows so people can see into the store. They said, ‘Please dress up the wall toward Gary’s.’ We added a cupola on the top of the roof to break up the appearance of a square building. A standard Dollar General building would be metal. This is a far separation from that. The siding is made to look like wood. It’s called Hardie board. It holds paint better than wood over the years.”

Mary Grace Cimino questioned the jump in ambulance coverage cost from $56,000 to $233,000 proposed in Article 10, Public Safety.

Town Manager Robert Peabody explained that

In 44 minutes, citizens tackled 31 warrant articles, expedited when Jim Cossey proposed to vote Articles 16-31 as a block, which participants overwhelmingly agreed.

United Ambulance officials approached the Select Board very late in the budget process, informing the town that based on the current level of funding, they could no longer provide Bridgton with service. “They were losing too much money to continue providing us service. They originally requested $335,000, but the Board met with them and we got it reduced down to $233,496. You’re right, it’s a substantial increase, but if you follow the news across the state, particularly rural ambulance companies are losing money at an outstanding rate.” Reimbursements from

Board members cited not having enough time to digest the application, and wanting to do a site walk to really see

SEVERAL TIGHT VOTES — Harrison Town Meeting moderator Jason Moen found several hand votes on articles too close to call, ordering several ballot votes last Wednesday night at the elementary school. Here, ballot counter Renee Joyce works the back end of the gym, tallying votes. (Rivet Photo)

— Cass Newell, Harrison Town Manager

Quick work with warrant

(Continued from Page 1A)

“Quite frankly, there are people without insurance and they don’t pay the bill,” Peabody said. “They (United) opened their books to the Board of Selectmen, and justified the need. The question is for us whether we go without ambulance service, which I don’t think any of us would like that idea, or we do our own ambulance service. I can tell you from prior experience in another town that it comes at a tremendous cost, far more than $233,000.”

Peabody believed the contract calls for two ambulances to be stationed in Bridgton and one being “close by.”

“In essence, we always have an ambulance available,” he said.

The article passed.

Citizen Joe Gallinari asked for a breakdown of

$3.7 million under Article 11, Public Works and Capital Expenditures.

Peabody pointed out that $60,000 is budgeted to rebuild sidewalks from Pondicherry Square to the Black Horse Tavern. About $12,000 is offset by the Harrison Road TIF.

“They’re in terrible condition. The kids use them and we need to take care of them,” he said.

Other expenditures include paving Swamp Road, Warren Street, North Road, Winn Road and Plummer’s Landing ($650,000); the Town Hall will be equipped with two compressors and three mini-splits; and an addition is slated for the Public Works Department facility. The estimated $100,000 new space will house the Waste Water Reclamation Superintendent, Public

Bridgton notebook

(Continued from Page 1A)

Beach and beavers building dams “three properties up from Park Street?”

As for the geese, Public Service Director Madsen said the town crew is cleaning the beach each morning, and after speaking with an animal control officer, the town will take a two-pronged approach to keep the geese away. Step one is to place “life-like” coyote decoys near the water. The decoys will be moved once a day. Step two is to point green lasers at the geese, which will cause them to move away. Another option, which a property owner nearby has done, is to install stakes with shiny, reflective ribbons attached.

As for the beavers, Tworog at a previous meeting posed whether the town could pay the $1,600 for a trapper to remove the critters.

After eight attempts to talk with someone at the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, Madsen finally touched base with a biologist and learned that “it is not a town issue.” If the dam was next to a road, it becomes a town issue — which has become a situation elsewhere and needs attention.

“It is not our responsibility and we take no part in going onto private property to extricate them (beavers),” Madsen said.

Tworog clarified that he wasn’t asking for the town to go onto private property, but to “flex their huge muscle and spend $1,600 on removing the beavers in this extraordinary expenditure.”

Town Manager Peabody pointed out that the town’s attorney referred to a section in state law that the “Maine Constitution includes the power to tax, but only to the extent that the tax revenues are spent for public purposes.”

“So, you cannot do that,” said Peabody regarding the town covering the $1,600 bill.

Tworog sees funding the beavers’ removal as preventing excessive flooding on public property when the beaver dam breaks.

The item will be placed on the next meeting agenda for more discussion.

Works foreman and administrative assistant, who handles wastewater billing. Again, the cost will be offset by Route 302 TIF funds.

Additionally, the town wants to conduct a study ($55,000) for a Public Safety building, which would house police, fire and EMS (Emergency Medical Services).

The article passed. + + + + + + + +

Take back our Town

— As a long-time former Planning Board member, Dee Miller feels the town is slowly losing control on how Bridgton is changing and evolving. More control is falling into the hands of attorneys, Miller says.

When Article 9 (general government) reached the floor, Miller asked what is the total money budgeted for legal expenses. Town Manager Robert Peabody said funds for legal counsel appear in four budgets — $15,000 under Code Enforcement (Planning Board questions, clarifications, violations), $15,000 for Community Development (editing and revising ordinances), $15,000 for town-wide, and $2,500 for the police department (personnel matters) — for a total of $47,500.

“We’re cutting out all of the interest and activity that we’re used to getting from our own citizens who have a stake in the town,” Miller said. “They have been told in many instances by attorneys that things cannot be done the way they want them to be, and they must be done the way the attorneys want them to be. I assert we are the clients and the attorneys are there to serve us.”

Two examples, Miller said, were problems emerging with the Land Use Ordinance and work being done on the Comprehensive Plan.

Miller suggested zero dollars for legal in Article 9, “so that the administration and the Select board and any

other person knows that we want our people to have a say in what goes on with our future...It is not taking away all of the legal (funds), but it’s letting people know that we want our town back.”

When an explanation was given regarding legal expenses incurred by the town, Miller withdrew her motion.

The article passed.

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Manager’s take Before citizens tackled the annual town meeting warrant, Town Manager Robert Peabody made a few comments:

“I’d like to recognize the citizens of Bridgton for their support, encouragement and patience over the last few years. Having the town torn up due to construction projects is trying at best, but we are near the end of these projects. When completed, it will be decades before major work is needed again on the roads that were reconstructed,” he said. “Neighborhood connectivity and walkability has been improved with sidewalk construction.”

As for the bumpy ride along Portland Road (Route 302), Peabody noted it is a state roadway, which will be addressed in 2025.

Peabody also credited the Select Board for its demeanor and sincere efforts to act in the best interest of Bridgton.

“It is important to have

a board that works well together, debating the issues without personal rancor and keeping an eye on moving the town forward responsibly. Because of your dedication to the town, much was accomplished,” Peabody said.

Peabody also gave kudos to town staff, who “do an amazing job day in and day out.”

“Despite whatever curve ball thrown their way, my job is made immeasurably easier by them,” the manager said.

Plaques of appreciation for service were presented to long-time Selectman

McHatton and Chair

Push for

Attendance — With the light showing at the annual town meeting, Select Board member Paul Tworog suggested finding ways to increase public awareness and encouragement to participate. He suggested that the town again use the electronic message board sign to remind citizens of day, time and place of the meeting. In past years, the sign was placed on Portland Road for high exposure.

Seeks D-18 seat

Linda Miller of Bridgton is running for State Senate District #18.

District #18 encompasses the following towns: Brownfield, Denmark, Fryeburg, Hebron, Norway, Otisfield, Oxford, Paris, Sweden, Waterford, Mechanic Falls, Minot, Bridgton and Harrison. A Democrat, Linda has had a professional career in technical writing and interior design. She has worked at various building and design firms. Throughout her work and volunteerism, she is known as an empathetic listener, strong analytical and creative problem solver. She volunteered for Habitat for

Humanity, where she physically worked on housing projects and was in charge of in-kind building material donations. Linda currently owns a small space plan-

Page 8A

Bob

Carmen Lone, both were reelected to three-year terms.

UNDER A WATCHFUL EYE — A eagle watches over baby eaglet in nest, photographed by Pam Ward.

Candidate Linda Miller MILLER,

Manager nearly resigned due to continued bullying

(Continued from Page 1A)

Social media has played “a huge role” in giving some members of the public a vehicle to bully and harass.

“I’ve often been told don’t look at social media. If I don’t look at social media and someone’s talking about something that relates to my home and I miss it, then I’m not paying attention to something that I could do to protect my safety,” she explained. “I’ve gone to great lengths to do my best to ignore it, but it still happens. It’s a small group, and it seems relentless sometimes.”

When Newell says the job means more to her than the salary she receives, she means it.

“I certainly don’t do it for the money. I called the state when I first took this job and I tried not to take the salary. The chairman was aware of that. The state didn’t allow me to do that because I was considered a volunteer at that point. I thought it would be nice to be able to actually say that I’m not in it for the money and actually back that up. I’m actually not in it for the money. I’m here because I want to be here. I want be here every single day. I want to be here,” said Newell, who noted that she has a “good Navy pension” that covers her finances.

the issue is. Just attacking people on the Internet when you don’t know what you’re talking about isn’t right. They tell you (via social media) what’s going on in the town office and they’ve never been in the town office. A lot of them are just off the wall.”

Newell noted Naples lost its manager, John Hawley, when he tired of public negativity.

Resident Kathy Laplante set the tone earlier in the meeting during public participation.

“I need to say something about last night (at the annual town meeting). I was totally embarrassed and disappointed in the citizens of the town of Harrison for the reaction I saw. I saw hatred and discontent,” she said.

When she and her husband, Ray, moved to Harrison in the late ’70s, she found “a friendly village” that they felt welcomed to. “People were good,” Laplante said.

Both Laplantes wanted to be involved in their community, so they served on the Select Board. Ray became EMA director and member of the fire department. Kathy joined several committees, and represented Harrison on the SAD 17 School Board.

Then, Harrison changed.

By Wayne E. Rivet Staff Writer

HARRISON — For over a decade, Harrison has been served by Pace and United Ambulance companies for medical services without a per call charge.

It’s about to change.

Paul Fillebrown of United Ambulance recently met with Town Manager Cass Newell and Select Board Chairman Matt Frank regarding instituting a $282 per call charge for each call for the next year. Last year, Harrison had 143 calls.

“It comes to $40,000 and change. That’s a lot of money,” Frank told the public at last Thursday’s board meeting.

The request came after the budget process had been completed.

“This wasn’t something that we could bring up and have on the warrant in time for town meeting. We just didn’t have the information,” Newell explained. “United is willing to be flexible with their schedule and when they are going to require the funds and/ or a decision from us. I explained to them that there’s no way that we can do the things that we need to do as a town to be able

to start paying them that soon. They’re bound by a 30-day notification that they often put in the paper. In fact, that’s how they advertise what’s happening for them.”

United would like to see payment or a decision by July 1, but Newell doesn’t expect anything until August, when a full Select Board (with newly-elected Deb Kane at the table) can review information, schedule public informational meetings and a special town meeting might be required.

Newell reached out to PACE Ambulance officials regarding if the town dropped United, could the Norway-based service pick up additional calls? Harrison is divided into two sectors with PACE responding to calls in areas closer to Norway while United handles calls closer to Bridgton. If patients request either Stephens Memorial or Bridgton Hospital, PACE and United will adhere to the request.

“It’s not a 50-50 split. It’s more like 55-45 split,” Newell said. “PACE doesn’t have any interest at this point in charging us right now. So right now, PACE is going to consider going

with the status quo. Either no charge or if the town ends up making a decision that it’s in the town’s best interest to not pay United and let the service of United drop, which I don’t as a retired Navy nurse, I think that’s a bad idea. I realize it’s more money, but it’s a bad idea. The length of time for an ambulance to get to a scene will affect patient outcomes and you will have negative patient outcomes. People can get sicker, people can get worse. Something that is a moderate severity, something is a moderate trauma or something can escalate to a severe trauma, potentially including death. Obviously, we don’t want any of this to occur.”

Ultimately, Newell said, it’s whatever the town needs and wants to do and sees fit.

Harrison’s current options is to work with United regarding payment or drop the service. Newell noted that PACE will also seek “some sort of financial commitment” next year.

In other news:

• Citizen Wendy Gallant noted the town playgrounds need repair and/or replacement. “They’re really in poor shape,” she said.

HARRISON, Page 4A

Former Rec Director Paula Holt chastised residents for their unruly behavior.

“In my 21 years working here for three different town managers, I have never, ever seen the level of harassment and bullying that this town manager has put up with. It is absolutely awful. Social media attacking her character, the board’s character. What is wrong? I’m confused. It’s personal. They’re out to get Cass and it needs to stop,” she said. “The board needs to support her more than ever. We need to get the word out that she is a kind, caring, passionate town manager who has done nothing but was is best for this town, and for the children.”

Holt praised the manager’s work.

“I wish I was the (rec) director right now under this leader because, to me, she has got it going. She follows everything legal where other town managers did not. She follows everything by the law, and some people don’t like that. The harassment has to end. The bullying has to end, it really does. It’s just embarrassing. I feel for her.”

Not understanding where the disdain for Newell is coming from, Holt added that no matter who occupies the town manager’s seat, someone will likely not support the individual “for some reason.”

Select Board Chairman Matt Frank called the actions of some citizens at town meeting toward Newell as “totally inappropriate.”

“If you saw the Internet today, it was even worse,” he added. “If you have a problem with Cass or with me or any department head, call the town office, make an appointment and we can sit down and talk face-to-face about whatever

“I truly feel that a couple of years ago, something happened in this town, a cancer started and it is spreading. It is killing our town. My hope is that this new (Select) Board will look at that. I know the town manager has worked very hard to try and do community things... It’s very emotional for me. It really is to see this town deteriorating, hatred and discontent and things that aren’t true are being said and are being fed. I think it needs to stop. I hope this new (Select) Board will work with the town manager and get our town back to being a friendly village because it isn’t anymore.”

Newell thanked for the support and kind words she received. “I appreciate that,” she said. “This job means everything to me.” Ultimately, her staff is the main reason Newell decided against resigning.

“The staff — they’re the best people...I think the world of every single one of them. They’re the best thing that happened to me. They’re why I am here today. They’re why I didn’t resign. I don’t want to go anywhere else because I love it here. I own my home here. I have a vested interest in being in this town. I’m not going anywhere,” Newell said. In closing, Newell asked the audience and community leaders to “help me to help the town to fix what’s broken. We have to work together. The bullying and harassment need to stop, not just with me with others too. Someone is going to get hurt. Those

TALLYING THE HAND COUNT — Harrison annual town meeting moderator

Jason Moen of Casco pencils in hand-count figures provided by Town Clerk Kristen MacDonald (center) and Administrative Assistant Denise Dumont. (Rivet Photo)

Manager raises bullying, harrassment concerns

(Continued from Page 3A)

people need to know we’re not going to stand for bullying on any level.”

“It needs to stop,” Kathy Laplante said.

“We have your back,” Paula Holt added.

“We appreciate your honesty,” Matt Frank said.

Challenges issued to Select Board

Some members of the public were not the only ones called out for poor behavior.

“I was appalled last night by the lack of support from the (Select) Board for the employees of this town, specifically the administrative employees of this town,” he said. “I don’t know if any of you just didn’t understand the impact of the amendment to the warrant article was going to be, but none of you spoke up.”

Laplante clarified that Board Chairman Matt Frank did attempt to bring back the warrant article funding pay raises for office staff — which had been reduced — at the conclusion of town meeting, but the attempt was voted down.

“It was unfortunate, but it was too little, too late. The Board shouldn’t stand it. The people in that office out there are the ones that provide the service — not the five of you sitting here. You need to support your employees. There will be severe — I guarantee you — severe ramifications of your

lack of support.”

Laplante was right. Later, Town Manager Cass Newell informed the public that one office worker had already decided to leave the job due to Wednesday’s vote.

Newly-elected Select Board member Deb Kane, who will be sworn by July 1 and sit at the board table on July 11, felt the board and town manager made several attempts to educate the public regarding the proposed budget (workshop sessions were open to the public), but too few took advantage. Cuts were made on the town meeting floor likely without knowledge of how and why the budget amount was recommended, while others on social media indicated the cut was directed at the town manager, whose salary was included in Office Administration.

“I don’t know what the best way is for us to get the word out. I was embarrassed that it seemed like two-thirds of the people were surprised by the budget, when we did all we could to try to get the word out to them,” Kane said. “One thing I would like us to consider, maybe as a team or going forward, other towns have a finance committee. Maybe we need a finance committee to work with you. I would recommend those two folks (Peter Brown and Renee Carter, who spoke out against proposed increases during town meeting) should be on the

Harrison notes

(Continued from Page 3A)

Newell has a donation lined up to address the issues. “We’ve gathered the information that we need (costs and prices) and it has gone out to the individual donor. We’re just waiting to see if the donor will pick up the entire tab.”

Taking her Miss Maples Nature House child-care group to Mill Pond Park for a walk, the boardwalk area is full of poison ivy, Gallant said. “It’s not easy to get rid of, I know. Can we do something about it, at least flag it saying ‘Poison Ivy, beware.’ It’s going to be pretty nasty,” she said.

finance committee because they have a lot of questions.”

Citizen Mike DiBiase expressed his disappointment in the vote regarding hiring a full-time fire chief.

“I was kind of disappointed in the town. We have a (fire) study that we paid for and I feel the board isn’t supporting that as well as we should be. The fire chief position was shot down by a lot. I feel that was intentional. I feel like the people that were there voting didn’t understand the report that we got,” DiBiase said. “That study tells us step-by-step what we should be doing. I know as a member of the fire department that’s how I’m going to proceed with what I do. However, I feel the board also needs to stand behind that study that we paid for, that you chose. Colleen (Densmore) said it best at one of the meetings about the position. It’s not the who, it’s the what. That’s correct. It’s the position. So, I think you guys up here and the department, as well, will try to work with you so we can help promote that study and follow it because I think that is the direction we should be going. Things are changing, despite the people who want to keep this place back in the forties. We’re not there. We’re moving forward. Last night, I felt like was a big you know, stomp on the brakes. We can do better.”

Chairman Frank felt the $17,000 study was “very professional” and noted that the company representative served as point person at two public information sessions.

just want to say no, save us the $17,000.”

John Wentworth took off his Code Enforcement hat and spoke as a citizen calling for the board to take a stronger stance. Too many times during town meeting, board members deferred to someone else to answer questions regarding budget items rather than explaining why they recommended passage, Wentworth pointed out.

“Whether they listen to you or not, it’s irrelevant to me. But, you are the ones that know. You’ve been through every line item in the budget. Every single one of them. It took you 10 to 15 meetings just to get enough of a consensus to put in an article and let people vote on it. They elect you to do that,” he said.

“You need to be strong as a board. You need to project that image. Until you do that, you are going to get people that stand in the back and say, ‘I know more than you do’ and ‘we’re going to cut everything you did.’ They’re just not listening to you. They weren’t at every one of the budget hearings. You guys reviewed everything. I don’t know what made them suddenly experts on it. I didn’t see any experts there other than the ones sitting up front — you guys are the experts.”

Select Board member Colleen Densmore appreciated the public feedback. She then clarified her approach at town meeting.

of Casco) did a beyond excellent job with it.”

Densmore agrees the Select Board has hurdles to cross and some tough challenges ahead.

“I am very disappointed in the taxpayers for voting against one department, trying to reduce where it can be reduced. I’m not sure if I were a town employee, what retention would look like for me going forward. I think everybody here works hard. I don’t think that we have a lazy group of people that are misled. I think that we’ve got a wonderful group of people who just need to be supported and respected,”

she said. “I think it was extremely disrespectful to cut the administration budget because some people are angry and want to be angry with the account manager. That is over the top. It’s inappropriate. Again, it’s not about the who, it’s about the what. If we take every name out of every position and we only look them at as positions and expectations, then what do we have? It’s that simple.”

Densmore closed out her comments adding, “I don’t think the back-door baloney that goes on in this town is appropriate. I don’t care for it.”

Town Meeting

the amount of water a truck can bring to the fire scene due to the lack of hydrants. One truck carries roughly 3,000 gallons while another (which is experiencing some electrical problems) can haul 750 gallons.

He noted that when the time arrives to make a purchase, officials will consider new vs. used options. For a new truck, the order to delivery time is estimated at two to four years. Prices keep rising, about 20% per year, fueled by new federal requirements.

One citizen wondered if Harrison could get by with the current size of its truck fleet seeing fire fighters responded to two structure fires last year. However, fire officials reminded citizens that the department also responds to motor vehicle crashes and provides mutual aid, thus the need for a third vehicle.

“God forbid the good truck we have blows up. What would we do as a town? We don’t have reserves — let’s just call it a million dollars because that’s what these trucks are. What would we do?” a citizen asked.

Fire Department Mike DiBiase encouraged folks to carefully read the fire study, which is available on the town’s website.

“They made what I believe was a strong case for what Harrison needed. Most of the people who voted against it, I didn’t see at either of those two public sessions, and that’s disheartening,” Frank said. “Last year, town meeting wanted us to hire outside consultants to give us recommendations. We did that. We found their advice and then they ignored the advice. Next time, if you

“I said this to Nate (Sessions) before the meeting that I was going to try not to talk because I wanted to hear what our taxpayers had to say and that’s what I wanted to listen to. Honestly, I thought that we were really only supposed to be speaking when the moderator called on us by the question that was asked. I really had a lot to say last night. I didn’t want to say anything because I wanted to listen to the taxpayers. I think it was probably the best moderated town meeting. I think he (Jason Moen

“The department is a work in progress. I suggest we look at the study and go by the study. That’s what we paid money ($17,000) for. We’re trying to look to the future, and the reason for this article is to start putting money aside so if something happens, we’re not paying a lot of money all at once,” he said. “Like the chairman said, it doesn’t necessarily mean brand new. We’re looking into multiple ways to get this done, but it has to be done.”

The article passed.

The Parks and RADR Complex budget was initially amended by Brown to use last year’s figure of $198,006 rather than the proposed $229,904. A big part of the $31,898 hike was $22,000 for field maintenance and repairs, which in previous years came under a Capital

(Continued from Page 3A) MEETING, Page 8A

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Regional Sports

June 20, 2024 The Bridgton

SWEET TASTE OF SUCCESS — Left to right is Senior Skyy Worster, Tenley Cousins, Quinn Gordon and Hailey Swander showing off their National Medals.

Gymnasts enjoy thrilling ride

Bridgton’s own Western Maine Dance and Gymnastics (WMDG) competitive gymnastics team had a thrilling and very productive week in Anaheim, Calif. at the National Gymnastics Association’s National Championship!

WMDG had eight gymnasts who competed at regionals in Saco on May 10-12. All gymnasts qualified to attend nationals with an all-around score of 33.5 or higher. They were: Brooklyn Davenport (silver), Quinn Gordon (bronze), Angelenia Rocca (silver), Nazomi Conant (bronze), Marley Poitress (silver), Tenley Cousins (silver), Hailey Swander (silver) and senior Skyy Worster (platinum).

There, they had the opportunity to earn a position on the Region 6 Regional Team. Judges chose 10 gymnasts per level (bronze, silver, gold, platinum and diamond) competing for an opportunity to represent all gymnasts from Region 6 (Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont) at Nationals. WMDG had three Silver team members (Brooklyn Davenport, Tenley Cousins and Hailey Swander) and one Platinum team member (Skyy Worster). They were chosen to represent Region 6 at the national level.

WMDG had four gymnasts head to Nationals in Anaheim, Calif. with Coach Kristina Brewer June 7-12.

GYMNASTS, Page 6A

&

Climbing Albany Mtn.

Albany Mountain is the highest of a group of low hills, called the Albany Mountains, and is a moderately difficult climb. The USFS does not plow the road to the Albany Mountain Trailhead in winter, making it another one of our three-season mountains (like Black Cap Mountain in North Conway).

We have climbed Albany five times, the last time before our May 24, 2024, hike was in October 2021. This trail to the summit of Albany Mountain has to be one of the best maintained the Denmark Mountain Hikers climb — lots of stone steps, the streams are directed into stone channels beside the trail so the footing is dry nearly everywhere up the mountain. There are a couple of switch backs in the trail where needed. Since our last hike, the trail around the beaver dam crossing has become tricky and involves walking on the beaver dam. The route thoughtfully passes next to a very photogenic large, mosscovered, rock ledge at 1.2 miles from the trailhead.

Mountain Hikers

Sixteen Denmark Mountain Hikers took to the trails of Albany Mountain on May 24. We started up the

1.9-mile trail at 9:40 a.m.

under sunny skies with temperatures in the high 70s. It was quite buggy with some hikers donning head nets while others relied on bug spray. The hike started out quite easily over fairly level ground. About 15 minutes into the hike, we arrived at a beaver dam over which the trail travels. There were sticks everywhere and a few wellplaced branches. Trekking poles were in order for those who had them. A few others picked up poles thoughtfully left by previous hikers.

After passing this unique water crossing, the trail started to rise gradually, but steadily. It was a beautiful setting under newly leaved deciduous trees with a small number of conifers mixed in. As we neared the ridge that forms the summit, there were a few switchbacks that kept the trail from becoming too steep.

At 10:55 a.m., after an hour and 15 minutes of hiking, we reached the trail junction with a sign directing us to the summit just .4 miles ahead. After a short fairly steep rise, the trail leveled out as we traversed the ledgy height of land that forms the summit area. We passed a nice lookout on the right, sav-

Senior Rambles

Hiking Trips & Tips

By Allen Crabtree

ing it for our descent. We had effectively split into two groups with a group of five forging on ahead of the others. At 11:15 a.m., the main

group of 11 reached the true summit which was covered by trees and had no view. At this spot, the trail continues

Chip shots — I’ll take the heat

By Whit Lesure BHCC Golf Columnist

There’s been excessive “Heat” recently not only on the front porch but also in our sports world. Of course, we had “Rory” melting down on the final few holes of the U.S. Open and looking more like a “weekend sweeper” at BHCC than a Hall of Famer. Caitlin Clark continues to draw attention and “hard fouls” in the WNBA ahead of the upcoming Summer Olympic Games in Paris. And, I sit here wondering what’s in store for our Celtics should they go out and lay another “egg” tonight in Game 5 of the NBA Championship. Predicting how they will play is no more reliable than finding an understanding of my golf game on any particular day. (Update: No worries, the C’s took care of business, manhandled the Mavericks and secured Banner 18!) That is needless to say, in part, the beauty and attraction of sport.

With temperatures soaring all around us, you are certain to see the local “greens” running more like Pinehurst #2, as well. They’ve got a brand-new high tech “roller” and George Thomas (Course Superintendent) has given the green light to heat things up on the “stimpmeter” (device used to measure the speed of the ball on the greens).

The Tuesday evening

Scramble crew is always “cooking with gas.” Winning 1st Gross and laying down the gauntlet for the youth of America were the “under 30” team of Ben Chaine, Damon Knight, Nate Smith, and Mickey Huntress. 2nd Gross belonged to Mark Nolette, Merlin Bahr, Scott Parody, and Steve Collomy. Finishing 3rd Gross were the “Bridgton Academy Boys” of Aaron Izaryk, Tim Atwood, Joe Drew, and

Dave Lepage. The 1st Net winners were Mike Collins, Bob McHatton Jr., Jim Neal, and Nick Klemick. 2nd Net belonged to the team of Dick (not a common name these days) MacDonald, Len Cutler, Gordon Blanchard, and Dave Greise. 3rd Net went to Doug “3rd” Plaice, Len “the Bag Man” Carsley, Kim “Giddy Up” Pike, and Steve “Sneaky” Dearborn. Not shockingly, Bob “the

BHCC Ladies’ Golf

By Suzie Kinney BHCC Golf Columnist

I have returned to the sylvan summer beauty that is Bridgton from the heat and humidity of the southern reaches of Georgia. It was a welcome return in spite of the damage from the winter storms in Maine. During the winter, we were happy to be in the south!

As for the ladies’ golf on Wednesday, it was great to reconnect with this happy group of players. We celebrated the morning of golf with our season opening meeting followed by a lunch prepared by the Bridgton Highlands Club chef Mike Shea. Our club pro, John Boswell, formally wel-

Czar” Bissonette found his way to the money with an NTP #2 while Sir Peter Gately of Norfolk (AKA “Easy Rider”) captured NTP #8. In Weekend Sweeps action Saturday, Whit Lesure continued his recent hot streak with a Low Gross best 76. Wayne Kuvaja earned Low Net. Mild mannered Lesure paired with Rob “the Boss” Pressman for Team Gross. Wayne Kuvaja paired with Bob “Sir Net” Surette for Team Net. The Quota game might as well be renamed John Roberge. He’s already got a tree — just sayin’…Bob Surette took home NTP #10. On Sunday morning, Nick “The Other Guy” Stuart earned a Low Gross best 75. John “Quota” Roberge used a near career best round to win Low Net. Team Gross went to Jim “Par From NoWhere” Macklin and Nick Stuart. Team Net belonged to John “These guys are giving money away here” Roberge and Mike “The other half of The Other Guys” Stuart. Jim Macklin walked away with both the Quota and NTP #13. Personally, I will take “the heat” over excessive cold any day of the week. As Harry Truman famously advised, “If you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen!” So, if you need

LADIES’ GOLF, Page 6A CHIPS, Page 7A

Tenley Cousins, WMDG Coach Kristina Brewer

Hailey Swander celebrating a successful weekend at NGAs National Championship in Anaheim, Calif.

VIEW from the summit of Albany Mountain. (Photo by Susan Sedita)

RAMBLES, Page 6A

Senior Rambles: Albany Mtn.

(Continued from Page 5A)

on to the other side of the mountain with some extensive views to the west along the steep ledge that is there.

Unaware of the views ahead and not wishing to continue, the main group hunkered down for lunch.

After 20 minutes with the bugs continuing to be pests, we started down expecting the advanced group to catch up to us, which they did almost immediately.

In 15 minutes, we all took the side trail to the overlook that we had passed on the way up. We were treated to great views of the White Mountains to the northwest with Washington just peeking out behind the mountains in the foreground. The descent was pleasant and uneventful. The skies did darken and threaten rain, but the clouds

Gymnasts

(Continued from Page 5A)

Bronze team member, Quinn Gordon, received an all-around score of 33.875 and placed 16th overall in her age group. Silver team members (both of whom had also made the East Coast Regional team) Tenley Cousins received a 35.15 all-around score and placed 15th overall, while Hailey Swander received a 37.1 all-around score and was awarded second place champion for the balance beam, 7th place on uneven bars, 7th place on vault and 8th place overall. Platinum team member and East Coast Regional team member Skyy Worster ended her high school gymnastics career at Nationals with an all-around score of 35.750 and was awarded third place champion for the balance beam, 10th place for her floor routine and 9th place overall.

“We are very proud of them and are excited to see what next season brings! Congratulations on a very successful year to all!” WMDG director and owner Belisa Harriman said.

passed over us without a drop falling. We reached the beaver dam at 12:50 p.m. and had no problems due to our practice traverse on the way up. We reached the parking lot at 1:05 p.m. after covering the 1.9 miles in one hour and 20 minutes. It was a very nice, if a bit buggy, spring hike.

Albany Mountain in Oxford County, Albany, ME

Difficulty – Moderate

Hiking distance– 1.9 miles to the summit via Albany Mountain Trail

Hiking times – 2 hours to the summit

Elevation – 1,900 feet

Vertical Gain – 900 feet

Coordinates – 44° 18’ 02”N 70° 50’ 12” W

Topographic Map – USGS East Stoneham 7.5-minute quad / 44.10567; -71.094

Directions to the north trailhead: There are two ways to access the north trailhead. From Maine Route 5 just south of Songo Pond, look for the WMNF sign for the Forest Service Campground. Turn west onto Patte Brook Road. This becomes FR8 and at 2.9 miles from ME 5 turn left on FR18 and follow it for 0.6 miles to the trailhead on the right.

Alternatively, starting from West Bethel on Maine

(Continued from Page 5A)

comed our ladies’ group back to the club. He then gave a brief talk on course etiquette, chiefly on time saving techniques for speed of play.

Our co-presidents, Lynne Gillen and Shari Linskey, skillfully led the group in the round of 9 holes followed by the meeting.

The minutes of our last meeting in the Fall of 2023 were read to us by Maureen Tillett, our secretary. Donna Bleakney gave a concise edifying presentation on the G.H.I.N. golf handicap system. Other points of interest were announced followed comments from the group. The group enthusiastically approved the first steps toward a ladies’ club championship. I hope this comes to fruition though I won’t be able to participate this year due to recovery from a shoulder injury. Several new members were introduced to our crew making it even more

motley. Yeah! Our meeting ended with happy smiles as we look forward to next week’s play.

Earlier this morning, the ladies played 9 holes and here are the results of the scramble format. The winning low gross score was taken by “Jolting” June Imo, Shari “Lights Out” Linskey, Deb “Dead Eye” Littleton and Jamie “Rollicking” Rolfe.

In second place for low gross was the team of Laurie Paldino, Tara Runnals and Carolyn Stanhope.

Closest to the pin on hole #2 was Laurie “Punch It” Paldino, which garnered a team win. Closest to the pin on hole #8 was Patty “Walloping” Walo, also for a team win.

Congratulations to our new co-presidents on their first official meeting and to the winners of today’s play. Tip of the Week: Practice, practice, practice. Hit’em long and straight!

LRHS honor roll

Lake Region High School Principal Maggie Thornton has announced the fourth quarter honor roll: Senior Class High Honors: Hailey Brewer, Susie Butler, Kaden Felts, Abigail Forni, Fatoon Hile, Samantha Kilgore, John Kimball, John Paul McHugh, Ines Mosquera, Alice O’Connor, Jac Ordway, Emily Reardon, Rianna Reynolds, Abigail Roberts, Sera Travis and Owen Young. Honors: Izabell Apovian, Stephanie Canilao, Kalee Charette, Joseph Deschenes, Julie Eyles, Shelby Horning, Kasey Johnson, Ushana Kumari, Reiyn Leighton-Hart, Wesley Martin, Jazmin Pettingill, Abigale Pomerleau, Lauren Roy and Mallory Smith.

Merit Recognition: Kylie Cohoon, Evan Duprey, Bradley Helmbright, Evan Holden, Calvin Kestner, Vincent Madrid, Hannah Mowatt, Emma Nadeau, Kaley Noyes, Hayden O’Connell, Ashley Pelletier, Mackenzie Putnam, Michael Roose and Brianna Shaw. Junior Class

High Honors: Sage Cormier, Marissa Harlow, Nadia Leighton, Myles Littlefield, Ella Martin, Emma McKenney, Olivia Roy, Maxwell Shorty, Averie Smith, Bella Smith and Shougo Sturk.

Honors: Laura Dutton, Madison Eddy, Eva Fickett, Delaina Grover, Shane Labrecque, Mya Lee, Madelyn Long, Madelyn McDougall, Kaylee Oliveira, Audrey Philbrook, Madison Shepard, Allie Small, Garrett Towne and Rees Vogen.

Merit Recognition: Sierra Allen, Dallas Armstrong, Rebecca Armstrong, Lucian Bassett, Titus Benton, Gregory Blackwell, Jake Blais, Jordan Blanton, Christopher Caron, Elise Conover, Nastasia Gottier, Caiden Hall, Ava Johnson, Jackson Libby, Gavin McCulloch, Kaylee Oliveira, Adam Quincy, Daniel Rollins, Margo Tremblay and Chloe Ward. Sophomore Class

High Honors: Jacob Kuvaja, Katherine O’Connor, Marissa Payne, Kathleen Peterson, Rayme Reynolds and Molly Webster.

Honors: Benjamin Barker, Zachary Cross, Audrey Dubay, Sylvie Gronlund, Brian Harmon, Mya King, Mia Letarte, Matthew Plummer, Vylet Robbins, Kimberly Stiffler, Collin Varney, Molly Wear and Tyson Wheaton.

Merit Recognition: Addison Butters, Jenna Dudley, Kaylee Fortin, Thomas James, Abigail Manchester, Emma Murphy, Grace Murphy, Adalynn Peterson, Aria Priola, Jacoby Robichaud, Meadow Rowe and Amaya Valeriani.

Freshmen Class

High Honors: Ella Barrows, Grace Gaumont, Daniel Jaronczyk, Jolene Mei, Abbigail Nadeau, Madison Olsen, Brooke Randall, Hayden Roy and Abigail Travis.

Honors: Phoebe Acosta-Afthim, Delani Brown, Ava Cole, Jayla Davis, Allie Fitzcharles, Nathan Forni, Chloe Gallagher, Ella Gibbons, Everett Horning, Jayden Jines, Isaac Jones, Samantha Jones, Kaila Kenyon, Averey Klein, Maiya Lantz, Reid Plummer, Makenzie Smith, Nica Walter and Ashley Watson.

Merit Recognition: Dylan Blair, Riley Boutilier, Jonathan Bueler, Colby Cain, Jordyn Fogg, Gabriel Francis, Hayden Hanson, Sophia Harkins, Charles Herrick, Kaylee Jensen, Dylan Libby, Michael Pierce, Shane Plummer, Harlow Ross, Peyton Scarboro, Helena Sheldrick and Braydan Wilson.

the Crocker Pond WMNF Campground,

Denmark Mountain Hikers crossing a beaver dam on the Albany Mountain Trail. (Photo by Jeff Sturgis)

Comic artist to speak

HARRISON — Comic book artist Ryan L. Higgins will offer two workshops for kids on Wednesday, June 26, at Harrison Village Library.

“How to Draw Comic Book Characters” for children in grades 3-6 will be offered from 3 to 4 p.m., and “Comics Quickstart: Launch Your Superhero Story in 90 Minutes” for grades 6 and up, will be offered from 4:30 to 6 p.m.

Comic Book Artist Ryan Higgins

Higgins is the creator of the Lazer Brain Comics series, featuring Nova Nasser, a girl who is given superpowers while on a visit to an Egyptian museum, and Filo Farnsworth, the boy with a remote-controlled superhero who must thwart an alien invasion. Both workshops are free and open to the public, but registration is required. To register, please e-mail Youth Services Coordinator Allison Taber at youthservices@harrisonvillagelibrary.org, or call the library at (207) 583-2970.

Chorus to sing at Brick Church

LOVELL — The Brick Church for the Performing Arts in Lovell is pleased to announce the return of

the Mollyockett Chorus on Thursday, June 27 at 7 p.m. with a program of barbershop singing.

Author to read kids’ book

DENMARK — Dr. Jennifer Schmidt will read her children’s book, Magical Meadow on Wednesday, June 26 at 10:30 a.m. All ages welcome!

Jennifer grew up in Denmark, where she developed her love for nature. She found solace and wonder in the forests, ponds and meadows surrounding her childhood home.

Dr. Schmidt graduated from Goucher college with a degree in Biology and then attended the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in family medicine and moved to Southern Maryland on the Chesapeake Bay, where she practices general medicine.

She and her husband, Tom, have two grown children. She still loves nature and enjoys traveling, hiking and nature photography.

The Denmark Public Library is located at 121 E Main Street, Denmark.

Heat wave postpones LELT walk

Due to the impending heat wave, Loon Echo Land Trust is postponing today’s (June 20) community walk in Pondicherry Park to next Thursday, June 27 from noon to 1 p.m. Meet at the Bob Dunning Memorial Bridge entrance to the park on Depot Street.

Pondicherry Park

Community Walks are held monthly on the third Thursday of each month. These free events are a great way to meet fellow community members, be active outside, and get familiar with the Park. Walk route will be

determined based on participant interest and ability. Free and no registration necessary.

Volunteers Give Back Loon Echo Land Trust recently hosted two volunteer workdays in celebration of Love Maine Trails Month. At Rolfe Hill in Casco, volunteers helped clean up three pickup trucks worth of trash, including a dishwasher, bumpers, tires and much more. At Bald Pate Mountain in Bridgton, volunteers helped carry in cedar and build bog bridges. A total of 10 new bog bridges have been

LR bottle drive

The Lake Region football team is holding a bottle drive to raise money to purchase new practice equipment “to allow for safer practices and reducing the number of full-contact drills” for both high school and middle school teams.

The bottle drive is now through July 15. Returnables can be brought to Bridgton Redemption Center, 4 Nulty Street. Just mention returnable bottles and cans are “for Lake Region Football.” If you have a high volume returnable donation, contact Coach Ben Mullins at coachbenlrf@gmail.com to arrange pick up.

Highland Chips

(Continued from Page 5A)

a break in your meal prep, I happily recommend the Pondicherry House restaurant in downtown Bridgton. Tell “Cal” or “Mike” Whit sent you. (It won’t entitle you to a thing, and might actually hurt you.) Do yourself a favor and make a reservation. It’s worth it. I’ve seen a few customers (from “Away” I surmise) get pretty “heated” when the cozy confines had to turn them away. The Celtics are “Champs” by the time you read this. I believe that about as much as the 4-foot or less sliding putt (Rory had two) we all face. Never a doubt!

constructed on the Moose Trail since last year in order to help get hikers over a muddy section of trail.

LELT’s next volunteer workday is scheduled for Monday, June 24 at 10 a.m. Volunteers will help convert a snowshoe trail for year-round use at Crooked River Forest in Harrison in preparation for the Fluvial 5K trail running race on Aug. 3. No experience necessary to assist, all tools provided. Register online at link.lelt.org/crfvolunteer.

Loon Echo Land Trust (LELT), founded in 1987, is a nonprofit organization that protects land, ensures public access to the outdoors, and builds and maintains recreational trails in Raymond, Casco, Naples, Harrison, Sebago, Bridgton, and Denmark. The organization currently conserves over 9,000 acres of land and manages a 35-mile trail network across the Lake Region. Visit LELT.org or their Facebook page.

The Mollyockett Chorus, based in Norway, was organized in 1996 and is a chapter of Harmony Inc, an international women’s barbershop organization. Under the direction of Simon Smith of Bethel, the chorus sings lively popular music, mostly from early to mid-20th century, in the barbershop style. The chorus is comprised of women from all over Oxford and Cumberland counties and performs at various venues throughout the region. The performance at the Brick Church will kick off the summer and fall season for their new program, “Back

Stage at the Variety Show.”

Women who love to sing are always welcome to drop in at a chorus rehearsal, any Tuesday evenings at 6:30 p.m., downstairs in the First Unitarian Universalist Church, 479 Main Street in Norway. For more information, e-mail the chorus at mollyockettchorus@gmail. com or visit the chorus on Facebook.

The Brick Church for the Performing Arts is located at 502 Christian Hill Road in Lovell. Tickets are available at the door. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children. Free baked goods are served at intermission.

Bridgton Police Department

These items appeared on the Bridgton Police Department blotter (this is a partial listing):

Monday, June 10

9:49 a.m. Welfare check on South High Street.

4:48 p.m. Two-vehicle crash in a Portland Road business parking lot.

5:53 p.m. Welfare check on Main Street.

7:36 p.m. Criminal trespassing complaint on Portland Road.

8:02 p.m. Agency (District Court) assist at Knights Hill Road residence.

8:50 p.m. Suspicious person sleeping on the sidewalk in front of a Main Street business.

Tuesday, June 11

7:52 a.m. Police assisted the Bridgton Fire Department on Harrison Road.

9:57 a.m. Citizen assist on Smith Avenue.

1:20 p.m. Police intervened in a citizen dispute.

2:40 p.m. Motor vehicle crash on Main Street.

3:04 p.m. Citizen assist on Portland Road.

7:12 p.m. Mental health event at Lily Lane.

11:11 p.m. Suspicious person on South Hight Street.

Wednesday, June 12

5:23 a.m. Criminal trespassing complaint on Portland Road.

9:39 a.m. Disturbance on Sweden Road.

10:43 a.m. Citizen assist on Main Street.

12:12 p.m. Disturbance on Pond Road.

1:15 p.m. Report of a runaway juvenile at Frances Bell Drive.

1:21 p.m. Mental health event on Kansas Road.

5:22 p.m. Citizen assist at Skillins Circle.

Thursday, June 13

5:21 a.m. Two vehicle crash at the intersection of Sandy Creek Road and Portland Road; no injuries reported. Both vehicles were towed.

3:36 p.m. Citizen assist on Wayside Avenue.

5:33 p.m. Citizen assist on North High Street.

8:30 p.m. Suspicious vehicle parked in a South High Street business park-

ing lot; officers made contact with two individuals inside the vehicle.

Friday, June 14

9:51 p.m. Agency assist on Kansas Road.

12:12 p.m. Ongoing parking problem on Highland Road. Police ask for people parking at Highland Lake Beach to not park on the grass.

3:59 p.m. Citizen assist at Isaac Stevens Road.

5:19 p.m. Burglary at a North Bridgton Road residence.

5:23 p.m. Theft complaint on Portland Road.

7:56 p.m. Report of a runaway juvenile at Wayside Avenue.

8:29 p.m. Court service on Main Street.

Saturday, June 15

12:26 p.m. Suspicious person at Harmon Field.

1:57 p.m. Suspicious person on Main Street.

3:05 p.m. Agency assist at Kansas Shores Road.

5:20 p.m. Suspicious person on Nulty Street.

9:01 p.m. Fireworks complaint at Hospital Drive; officers checked area but failed to observe any violations.

10:35 p.m. Suspicious person on Main Street. 11:57 p.m. Traffic stop (operating under the influence) on Highland Road. Sunday, June 16

12:33 a.m. Alcohol offense on Highland Road.

1:48 a.m. Agency assist on Depot Street.

6:12 p.m. Pedestrian check on Portland Road.

6:28 p.m. Agency assist at Misty Lane in Hiram.

7:06 p.m. Pedestrian check on Portland Road.

8:09 p.m. Vandalism complaint at Grayland Drive.

8:12 p.m. Suspicious person on Nulty Street. 11:16 p.m. Suspicious person on Depot Street. • During this reporting period, Bridgton Police responded to nine alarm calls and conducted 20 property checks.

Continuations

Miller for D-18

(Continued from Page 2A)

ning business in Bridgton.

“I will work to expand access to well-planned affordable housing for people of all ages, improve access to health and mental healthcare and adult vocational training. I will take on the burden of energy costs and climate resiliency,” she said. “I will also work to ensure the rights of small landlords against exploitation. It is a privilege to knock on doors throughout the district and listen to the concerns of the voters”.

Linda realizes that the most important need that human beings have, after food and shelter, is validation; to matter to others. In validating those in her life and work, Linda is fully present and laser focused. She listens, asks questions, does the research and creates solutions. She believes, with her whole heart, these skills and commitment will help her excel in representing Mainers in Senate District 18!

Linda is married, has four children and five grandchildren.

Facebook: “Linda Miller for Maine Senate”

Email: LindaMiller4StateSenate@gmail.com

Website: www.linda.mainecandidate.com

Messigner for D-86

RAYMOND — Craig

Messigner, a Democrat from Raymond, has announced his candidacy for House District 86, which includes Raymond, Casco, Frye Island, and part of Poland.

“As a lifelong firefighter, I know that when you’re fighting a fire there’s no time to stand around arguing, you have to work together to get people the help they need. There’s too much arguing and not enough working together. That’s why I’m running — to bring teamwork to Augusta to solve the problems we’re facing as a state: out of control costs, ensuring our older residents can age with dignity, and equipping our youth to build successful lives here in Maine,” Messinger said. “I believe communication and listening is missing from our political environment today, which is why I always listen to both sides of a situation and don’t base my decisions on a political party or an agenda.”

Messinger is a longtime Raymond resident, where he and his wife raised their family. A Deacon in his church, where he organizes community dinners, provides outreach to elderly congregants, and is a dedicated food pantry volunteer, Messinger has developed a strong understanding of local issues and needs. From delivering a baby in an apartment while serving as a Firefighter/paramedic in Portland, to coaching softball and soccer when his daughter was a Windham Eagle during middle school, he’s spent his life quietly helping his community thrive. He now hopes to bring that track record of helping his community to Augusta.

“I’ve seen first-hand how hard it can be for our seniors to age in rural communities like ours, we need to do more to support them. At the same time, we need to support our young adults as they seek an education and opportunities here in Maine. I’m lucky that my daughter has been able to get a great education here, and I want to make sure every Maine kid has the chance to be a lifelong Mainer,” he said.

District 86 has been represented for four terms by Jessica Fay. As she terms out, Fay says of Messinger, “Craig is exactly the right person to represent us in Augusta. He has always been an active member of our community. Craig has spent his professional career serving and caring for others. I believe that he will do the same for us in Augusta.”

Harrison

Item line.

The amendment failed, and the proposed figure was approved.

One citizen asked whether the Harrison Boosters Club still existed after not seeing a correspondence in the town report.

Averill Davis, who has been a Booster since 1976, told the audience that the club is its “own entity” not a town organization. However, it donates “thousands of dollars” from fundraising efforts and bottle redemption to both Harrison and Waterford rec and community programs. Questions arose regarding the town-sponsored Community Fair in August, as well as a $13,373 increase to the Harrison

Village Library due to staffing needs (including adding some paid planning time, 4 to 4 ½ hours per week) and extending hours of operation.

Library Board president Jon Whitney explained, “Every year, our volunteer board diligently goes through our budget item by item. We are what I call a reactive board and a proactive board. We react to what the needs of the community are. Our library director is looking to standardize and expand hours. We also are subject to inflationary costs for utilities and proper cleaning and roof patching and all those kind of things.”

The passing of Diane Jackson, who was a longtime former librarian and then stayed on as the bookkeeper, created a void,

meeting

leaving HVL to seek out payroll and bookkeeping services this year.

“Those are monies that have to be added to our budget this year, in addition to adding extra hours to provide the service,” Whitney said. “I make the point that we are reacting to all the demands. We are always trying to keep our standard of service very high, respond to use of community, and make the Harrison Village Library a real asset.”

As for the Fair, Town Manager Newell explained that the event is funded through donations — “one entity alone donated $12,000,” Newell noted.

The article passed.

Voters approved the Floodplain Management Ordinance, but rejected the Building Permit

Requirement Ordinance and Short-Term Rental Ordinance. After making some cuts to save money, citizens dug into their pockets to add $9,311.75 as requested by nine outside agencies such as Deertrees Theatre ($3,500), LEA milfoil control ($2,000), Tri-County Mental Health ($1,000) and Sweden Food Pantry ($1,000). The Select Board recommended just $1,000 for the Harrison Food Bank (there was no specific dollar amount requested by the group). In a baffling move, voters then rejected an article to continue to allow the submission of non-profit request for donations (third-party/outside organizations). The meeting finally concluded at 9:38 p.m.

Dollar General proposal tabled

(Continued from Page 1A)

the orientation of the plan and to have other questions answered.

The entrance off Route 302 was of some concern. Limiting it to one curb cut was suggested since that area is busy. Lighting was another issue that worried abutters and was brought up by board members.

One representative said the store will close at 9 p.m. and the lighting would dim to 50 percent at closing and shut off an hour after closing, or by 10 p.m. Berry presented a plan with the parking toward the street to appease neighbors. He did know there was an ordinance, directing developers to place parking away from Route 302 and possibly behind business.

“I did talk to some people. Two abutters asked, ‘Where is the parking lot? Will it be visible?’ They

like the idea that parking lot away from them, toward Route 302,” Berry said. “Despite the ordinance, we thought that was a better layout of this site.”

Planning Board member Jenn Leeman spoke up, saying she wanted to address the elephant in the room.

“I would not feel comfortable making a decision on this application at this point. I would like to have legal weigh in: What is a complete application versus an application handed in? Whether or not we can make a decision that it’s complete,” Leeman said.

Planning Board member Martina Witts agreed.

“I don’t think any of us are prepared to make a decision,” Witts said. “We have had this paperwork for six days, and now we are seeing a different [sketch of the exterior]” Leeman was concerned

about the parking lot layout that defies the town ordinance.

“If the parking lot goes against ordinance — we don’t have the power to grant something that’s against ordinance regardless if the neighbors like it or not,” she said.

Code Enforcement Officer (CEO) Kate Matthews said that request does not rule out reviewing the application.

“It should be considered. We don’t have the authority to approve it. We have standards for a reason,” she said.

Planning Board member Marty Zartarian asked about scheduling a site walk first.

“I request a site walk to have a feeling for what it will do for abutters and what the property lines are

all about,” he said. Also, Zartarian asked Berry for a breakdown of how much of the footprint is pavement versus the building. Witts asked that the landscaping plan be converted from gallon buckets to the height of plants to match Naples’ ordinance.

“Will these landscaping areas be landscaped with mulch and maintained by a gardening service? Or do they just plop it in there and hope for the best,” Witts asked. Berry said he wasn’t sure about the landscaping, and said he would find out

“Having read the phosphorous analysis, I am going to ask for a third-party review,” she said. “There is a lot going on. This is Brandy Pond and Long Lake.”

Candidate Craig Messinger

Country Living

June 20, 2024, The Bridgton News, Page 1B

LR Rotary welcomes Jacques

The Bridgton-Lake Region Rotary Club is pleased to welcome Stephany Jacques, president of Bridgton Hospital and Rumford Hospital, as speaker on Thursday, June 27 at 7:30 a.m. at Stella’s on the Square in Bridgton.

A native of Dixfield, Stephany has been with Central Maine Healthcare for more than 15 years. She began her career at Rumford Hospital in the operating room as an OR nurse before taking the role of Practice Manager at Rumford Hospital and Bridgton Hospital for the Oncology and Specialty Clinics. She was promoted to Regional Director of Primary Care Practices and Specialty Clinics at Bridgton and Rumford Hospitals. Before being named president, Stephany worked as the vice president of Nursing and Patient Care Services for Rumford Hospital.

She holds degrees from the Central Maine Medical Center of College of Nursing and Health Professions and the University of Maine at Fort Kent, as well as a master’s degree in Nursing Education from Western Governor’s University. Stephany is also a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives. She and her family live in Peru.

Stephany will discuss Bridgton Hospital’s strategy over the past year, provide updates on what’s ahead, and talk about involvement with the community. The meeting is free and open to the public. Meetings are frequently hybrid. Contact Rotary at LakeRegionRotary@ gmail.com for the Zoom link. For more information about Bridgton-Lake Region Rotary Club,

Meet the Bear Mountain spirits

Bear Mountain Music Hall 427 Waterford Rd Waterford Friday, June 21, 2024

7 p.m. $20.00

WATERFORD — Join Bear Mountain Music Hall (427 Waterford Road) on the Summer Solstice at 7 p.m. for this very special event where we attempt to meet the ghosts who are the residents of the building.

Downtown Historical & Informational walks

June informational walk at Narramissic and Peabody-Fitch Woods — Bridgton Historical Society will offer a series of low impact informational walks once a month at Narramissic Historic Farm and the Peabody-Fitch Woods in South Bridgton.

BHS Board President and Loon Echo Land Trust Stewardship Manager, Jon Evans, will lead the walks. This month’s walk will be held Friday, June 21 at 9 a.m. For more information please contact (207) 647-3699. Bridgton Historical Society to offer a series of downtown Historic Walks — The third in the series is Saturday, June 22 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Join BHS to experience Bridgton’s rich and living history with Society’s Mike Davis. Featuring photos, maps and artifacts revealing bygone history and culture along Main Street and Stevens Brook. Route will cover: Methodist Church, Main Street to Post Office Square, Magic Lantern, Depot Street, BHS museum. Meet at Bridgton Historical Society, 5 Gibbs Avenue at 10 a.m. Registration is not required. Donations are welcome! For more information contact (207) 647-3699.

This will be a unique experience.

Pia Louise Capaldi became aware of her intuitive gifts at a young age. She devoted much of her time listening to the language of the natural world. Pia’s spiritual practice is inspired by her study of the Andean (Q’ero) tradi-

The evening will begin with Donna Girard opening the building and greeting the spirits while placing protective bans against bad influences entering during this delicate time. Pia Louise Capaldi, well-known medium, will then reach out to the spirits asking them to identify themselves and to see if there is anything they would like to share. Donna will then close the building, ensuring that the circle is complete.

First Church Pick-up Choir

Do you love to sing? Are you hungry for spiritual community? Have you always wanted to join a choir, but rehearsal schedules haven’t fit into your life?

Whether you are a beginner or an advanced singer, all are welcome to join the First Church Pick Up Choir this summer on Sundays June 23, July 28, and Aug. 18. The choir rehearses at 9 a.m. in the church sanctuary, and service starts at 10 a.m. Church parking is in the back parking lot off of JR Mains Drive.

The First Congregational Church of Bridgton, Maine — United Church of Christ is an Open and Affirming church. All people are welcome. It is located at 33 South High Street in Bridgton. The Pastor is Emily C. Goodnow. Sunday services are at 10 a.m. Childcare is available. For more information, please call the church office at (207) 647-3936 or visit www.bridgtonucc.com.

Calendar of Events

Thursday, June 20

Reading & Conversation. Celebrated fiction writers, Meghan Gilliss (author of Lungfish and Lewis Robinson (author of Officer Friendly and Water Dogs), both Hewnoaks alumni, come together for a literary evening from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Hewnoaks Artist Residency (68 Hewnoaks Road in Lovell). This event is free and open to the public. Charlotte Hobbs Library Speaker Series welcomes acclaimed author Matt Cost, at 7 p.m. This talk is in-person and on Zoom. For details and the link to join virtually, go to www.hobbslibrary.org. For queries, contact the Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library at (207) 925-3177.

Friday, June 21

Informational Walk at Narramissic and PeabodyFitch Woods in South Bridgton, presented by the Bridgton Historical Society. BHS Board President and Loon Echo Land Trust Stewardship Manager, Jon Evans, will lead the walks. This month’s walk will be held at 9 a.m. For more information please contact (207) 6473699.

Saturday, June 22

Yard Sale between 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 42 Sweden Road, Bridgton. All proceeds go to Outreach.

“Remember Sandy,” honoring the life of a remarkable woman and beloved friend. Come share your memories and stories from 2 to 4 p.m. at Spaulding Memorial Library (282 Sebago Road). FMI 7872321.

Downtown Historic Walks. 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Join BHS’s Mike Davis at Bridgton Historical Society, 5 Gibbs Avenue at 10 a.m. Registration is not required. Donations are welcome! For more information contact (207) 647-3699. Music on Main at 144 Main Street in Bridgton, featuring Vanessa Jones and The Mallett Brothers Band, 6 to 9 p.m. Doors open at 5 p.m. Free admission. Food trucks.

Sunday, June 23

St. Peter’s Episcopal Church Service at 10 a.m., 42 Sweden Road, Bridgton. All are welcome.

Wednesday, June 26

Comic book artist Ryan L. Higgins offers two workshops for kids at Harrison Village Library. “How to Draw Comic Book Characters” for children in grades 3-6 from 3 to 4 p.m., and “Comics Quickstart: Launch Your Superhero Story in 90 Minutes” for grades 6 and up, at 4:30 to 6 p.m. Both workshops are free and open to the public, but registration is required. To register, please e-mail Youth Services Coordinator Allison Taber at

tion of Shamanic Energy Medicine, her extensive knowledge of animal medicine and her gift of clairvoyance. Pia incorporates within her healing practice her own original expression of Shamanic Embodiment helping others cultivate a healthy, safe inner awareness and personal practice rooted directly in the heart and inspired by the five senses.

Donna Girard is an artist and practicing Pagan living

in the valley of the mountains of western Maine. She has transformed her land into sacred spaces including a Mandala Garden, a Meditation Labyrinth and a Ritual Forest Grove. Donna facilitates a form of intuitive art called Soul Collage and has published a hybrid oracle deck using this artform linking spirit and vision.

Tickets: $20. bearmtnmusichall@ gmail.com • 207-256-0060

Medicare Counselor available at BCC

The Southern Maine Agency on Aging will now have certified SHIP counselor, Ann Hastings, available at the Bridgton Community Center for Medicare support.

SMAA’s certified SHIP counselors provide free, expert advice on selecting the right plans, understanding benefits, and maximizing coverage. Clients receive unbiased assistance with enrolling in Medicare, comparing plan options,

youthservices@harrisonvillagelibrary.org, or call the library at (207) 583-2970.

Annual Meeting. The Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library Annual Meeting at 6:30 p.m. at the library. At the brief business meeting, a vote will be taken on the FY 202425 budget, appointment of new Trustee Board members, and the slate of Executive Board Officers.

Dr. Jennifer Smith, local Maine author, will read her book Magical Meadow followed by an art activity at 10:30 a.m. at the Denmark Public Library. All ages welcome.

Resilient Harrison Maine meeting, “Baked Potatoes and Heat Pumps” at 6 p.m. at the United Parish Church, 77 Main Street in Harrison. Tim Adam from Ecoheat Maine have a presentation about heat pumps. There will be a Q&A session. For more information and to RSVP (so organizers can estimate potato numbers): call (207) 200-5316, e-mail ResilientHarrisonMaine@ gmail.com, or check Facebook at Resilient Harrison Maine.

Loon Echo Land Trust Sunset Concert Series, 6 to 8 p.m., Hacker’s Hill Preserve in Casco, featuring Pan Fried Steel. Bring chairs, blankets, warm layers, and a picnic. Suggested donation of $10 per adult (or an amount that is meaningful to you), which can be made via cash, check or Venmo at the event. All proceeds support LELT’s con-

and resolving issues related to claims and coverage. Whether you’re new to Medicare or seeking to make changes during enrollment periods, SHIP counselors ensure you make informed decisions to optimize your healthcare and financial well-being.

Please call SMAA at 207396-6524 or visit the website at www.smaaa.org to make an in-person or virtual appointment.

servation work in the Lake Region and the stewardship of Hacker’s Hill.

Thursday, June 27

Rotary Guest Speaker. Bridgton Hospital President Stephany Jacques at 7:30 a.m. at Stella’s on the Square (6 North High Street, Bridgton). Arrive at 7:15 a.m. Free and open to the public. For the Zoom link, contact LakeRegionRotary@gmail. com

Mollyockett Chorus will perform at The Brick Church for the Performing Arts, 502 Christian Hill Road in Lovell, at 7 p.m. Tickets sold at the door, $10 for adults and $5 for children.

Dan Moore, classical music on the Bosendorfer piano, 7 p.m. at Bear Mountain Music Hall (427 Waterford Road) in Waterford. Events funded by donations. Refreshments available downstairs in the School House Café during and after each event.

Friday, June 28 to Sunday, June 30

On Golden Pond at Deertrees Theatre in Harrison. Friday, June 28, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, June 29, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, June 30, 4 p.m. Tickets: $30 at deertrees-theatre.org. The beloved 1979 play by Ernest Thompson, Local cast directed by Gail Phaneuf.

Friday, June 28

Paddleboard Clinic at Highland Lake Beach from 5:30 to 7 p.m. An early evening standup paddleboard

Events and meetings scheduled at the Bridgton Community Center (15 Depot Street): Thursday, June 20

6 to 8:30 a.m., Dan Fitness ($)

11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Town Employee & Select Board

Appreciation Lunch

1 to 4 p.m., Painting Group ($5). Everyone welcome

1:45 to 6:45 p.m., Video Gaming Group

6 to 9 p.m., Chickadee Quilters Friday, June 21

6 to 8:30 a.m., Dan Fitness ($)

9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Chickadee Quilters

10 to 11:30 a.m., Chair Yoga

1 to 4 p.m., Mahjongg (free)

4:15 to 6:15 p.m., Death Cafe Sunday, June 23

1 to 3 p.m., Bridgton Fiber Group

5 to 8:30 p.m., Bridgton Jazz practice Monday, June 24

10 to 11 a.m. Chair Yoga

2 to 4 p.m., Cribbage, (free) Tuesday, June 25

6 to 8:30 a.m., Dan Fitness ($)

10 a.m. to noon, Chickadee Quilters

12:30 to 4 p.m., Bridge Card Group ($, learn to play)

6 to 8 p.m. Bridgton Republican Town Committee Wednesday, June 26

6 to 8:30 a.m., Dan Fitness ($)

10 to 11 a.m., Annette Crafts, Step-by-Step Painting ($)

12 to 1 p.m., Senior Lunch: Italian sandwiches with chips and pickles ($)

1 to 4 p.m., Mahjongg (free)

2 to 3 p.m., BCC Food Service Committee Meeting

5:30 to 7 p.m., Kayley Crafts, Tea Cup Candle ($) Thursday, June 27

6 to 8:30 a.m., Dan Fitness ($)

1:45 to 6:45 p.m., Video Gaming Group

5 to 6 p.m., Kettle Dinner sponsored by Chickadee Quilters. Menu: Pork roast, peas, mashed potatoes, cake 6 to 8 p.m., LR Republican Coalition

clinic with Jake Linley. Jake is a skilled paddler and frequently races in the summer. He’ll start with some basic tips on shore, followed by in-water instruction in the lake. This event is for everyone and is kid-friendly. Bring your own paddleboard and register in advance at www.mainelakes.

org/events

Saturday, June 29

R.B. Hall Day, presented by the Bridgton Community Band. Bands from across Maine will be performing at Stevens Brook Elementary School, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Craft and vendor fair, food trucks, hands-on music activities for kids and adults, free admission, bring a lawn chair!

Strawberry Festival at Nathaniel Hawthorne’s Boyhood Home in Raymond (40 Hawthorne Road) from 6 to 7:45 p.m. Guest speaker will be award-winning author/ editor Tess Chakkalakal, professor of Africana Studies and English at Bowdoin College. Ms. Chakkalakal is creator and co-host of this summer’s podcast series from Maine Public Radio entitled “Dead Writers: Great American Authors and Where They Lived.” Admission is $15 for adults and $5 for children aged 8 and under, with reservations at Hawthorne@Maine.RR.com or by calling 207-329-0537 strongly recommended. Walkins also are welcome.

Denmark Arts Center presents “You CAN Get There From Here — Art Opening”

with Erin Perkins from 5 to 7 p.m.

Sunday, June 30 5K Run & Walk to benefit Tucker’s House, 7 a.m. packet pick up at Harrison Post Office (5 Front Street), race starts at 8 a.m. at the Village Tie-Up. Entry: $20 online, $25 day of race. www.tuckershousebridgton.org/raceforrecovery Sunday Summer Concert at Naples Village Green, 6 to 7 p.m., featuring Preston & Currie (Country 70s and Classics). Free concert. Bring a chair. In case of rain, the concert is moved to the Naples Methodist Church. The Little White Church in Eaton, N.H., Ellen Schwindt revives her Music as Meditation series at 4 p.m. Friends Isaac Houghton and others will join her in presenting a program titled Improvisation upon a Ground. Free concert, donations benefit The Little White Church. ellen.m.schwindt@gmail.com

location at the Fire Station on Main Street. Classic rock and easy listening tunes from the 60s and upward. Rotary of Fryeburg to serve up free cake and ice cream on opening night! FMI e-mail Donnawbe@gmail.com or go to fryeburgrec.com/concerts

STEPHANY JACQUES, President of Bridgton Hospital

Country Living

Bridgton Farmers’ Market Recipe

Summer is here… Strawberries and Sugar Snap Peas

By Nancy Tripp Bridgton Farmers’ Market

Strawberries and peas are a sure sign that summer is here and both are appearing on our farmers’ tables. The sugar snap and snow peas arrive first and make great snacking fresh, just as they are out of the container. But there isn’t anything that says “summah” better than a bowl of fresh strawberries. Or any kind of berry as long as it is a Maine berry.

We had the first strawberries of this year with pancakes for Father’s Day breakfast. It’s so good! But my very favorite way to eat strawberries is Strawberry Shortcake. Start with the freshest berries from the Farmers’ Market and then bake the very best shortcake to put them over. Dollap fresh whipped cream from High View Farm on top and you are in for a treat. I have found the recipe I will use forever on.

I began using this recipe several years ago using white whole wheat flour, mixed it in my food processor for ease and I froze the extra shortcakes for later use. It is a large recipe. Warmed after thawing, these shortcakes are as delicious as they were fresh from the oven. The texture is light and crumbly and the flavor is sweet and buttery good.

I think you should try them and see for yourself.

Shortcake from Smitten Kitchen

Ingredients

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

2 1/4 teaspoons baking powder

3/4 teaspoon baking soda

3 tablespoons granulated sugar

1/4 teaspoon fine sea or table salt

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold, cut into

chunks

2 large egg yolks

3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons heavy cream

3 tablespoons raw or turbinado sugar

The Fruit 1 pound strawberries or mixed berries, hulled and halved if large

2 tablespoons granulated sugar, or more to taste

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)

1 cup heavy or whipping cream

Instructions

Heat oven to 400 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, granulated sugar, and salt until thoroughly combined. Add butter and using your fingertips or a pastry blender, break it into small bits, the largest should be no bigger than a small pea. In a small bowl, whisk yolks with a splash of cream, then pour rest of cream in and whisk to combine. Pour into butter-flour mixture and use a rubber spatula to mix and mash it together into one cohesive dough.

Divide dough into 6 (for large, 3 1/2 to 3 3/4-inch wide and up to 2-inch tall) shortcakes or 8 smaller ones. I do this by pressing the dough somewhat flat into the bottom of the bowl (to form a circle) and using a knife to divide it into pielike wedges.

Place raw or turbinado sugar in a small bowl. Roll each wedge of shortcake into a ball in your hands and roll it through the raw/turbinado sugar, coating it in all but a small area that you should leave bare. (I found that the sugar underneath the shortcakes would burn, so better to leave it off.)

Place it, bare spot down, on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with remaining wedges of dough. Bake for 15 minutes, until lightly golden all over. Let cool completely on a tray or on a cooling rack. While cooling, prepare fruit and cream: Mix berries, 2 tablespoons sugar (more or less to taste), and lemon juice, if desired, in a bowl and let macerate so that the juices run out.

In a larger bowl, beat cream until soft peaks form. Add sugar to taste, or leave unsweetened, if that’s your preference. To serve: Carefully split each cooled shortcake with a serrated knife. Spoon berries and their juices over the bottom half. Heap generously with whipped cream. Place the shortcake “lid” on top. Eat immediately and don’t forget to share. Find Us: The Bridgton Farmers’ Market is outside on the Green behind Renys, on Depot Street on Saturdays now through Oct. 26 from 8 a.m. to noon.

BFM is pleased to announce we have joined Senior Farm Shares this year. Stop at the Info Booth to learn more about the program and sign up if you are eligible.

For a full list of vendors and information on ordering or to sign up for the BFM weekly newsletter visit https:// www.facebook.com/BridgtonFarmersMarket/ or contact the Market at bridgtonfarmersmarket.bfm@gmail.com

Please keep your dog on a short leash and under control. BFM accepts credit cards and EBT. See you there!

Saturday, June 22

Edes Falls Sewing Circle Bean Supper, settings at 4 and 5 p.m. at Edes Falls Community Hall, 319 Edes Falls Road in Naples. Menu: Kidney and pea beans, red hot dogs, American chop suey, potato salad, cole slaw, rolls, variety of pickles, world famous “Pink Stuff” and a large assortment of pies. Cost: $12 for adults and $4 for children.

Sunday, June 23

HARRISON — The Harrison Lions will hold an “all you can eat” pancake breakfast (blueberry, chocolate chip, and plain pancakes), French Toast, bacon, sausage, orange juice, and coffee at Long Lake Park in Harrison from 7:30 until 11 a.m. The park is next to The Village Tie-Up. Donations accepted.

Future dates: July 7, July 21, August 11, September 1 and September 29.

Tuesday, June 25

Church Supper. The North Waterford Congregational Church will hold a public supper from 5 to 6:30 p.m. The menu features baked beans, American chop suey, cole slaw, salads, casseroles, beverage, and gingerbread. The church is located at 10 Green Road in Waterford

Saturday, June 29

Strawberry Shortcake Saturday Night Supper at the Casco Village Church, United Church of Christ from 4:30 to 6 p.m. The dinner will include beans, casseroles, salads, rolls, beverages, and fresh strawberry shortcakes! It’s all for $12 for adults, and $5 for children ages 8 and under. The church is located at 941 Meadow Road in Casco. For more information: (207) 627-4282.

bch@bavarianchocolatehaus.com

Country Living

Call for recipes

LOVELL — This is the final call for recipes for the Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library Cookbook! If you have a recipe you’d like to share, mail it to the library at P.O. Box 105 Lovell, ME 04051, e-mail it (JDupree@HobbsLibrary.

org) or drop it off at the library! All recipes must be submitted by July 1. Organizers will take any recipe you want to share, but they especially need Appetizers, Breakfast, and Condiments. Send along a little story about the recipe and it will be included.

Legal Announcements

PUBLIC NOTICE

Town of Waterford PLANNING BOARD

The Waterford Planning Board will hold a public hearing at the Waterford Town Office on Wednesday, June 19, at 6:30 p.m. to discuss the proposed Trunorth Subdivision presented by Darlene and Miguel Soares located on North View Drive off of Chase Gate Road. Public Welcome.

Public Notice

TOWN OF DENMARK

Notice of Public Site Visit:

Conditional Use Permit – Food Truck

For Matthew & Allsion McFadden, Map 013 Lot 17

Date: June 22, 2024, 9 a.m.

Location: 13 Hio Ridge Road, Denmark, ME

Notice of Public Hearing

Conditional Use Permit – Food Truck

For Matthew & Allsion McFadden, Map 013 Lot 17, 13 Hio Ridge Road, Denmark, ME

Date: June 27, 2024

Location: Denmark Municipal Building Meeting Room

The Bridgton News will be closed on Thursday, July 4, 2024 in observance of Independence Day.

EARLY DEADLINE

Monday, July 1, 2024 at Noon

Due to print production schedule there is an early deadline for all advertising and editorial of Monday, July 1, 2024 at Noon for the July 4th Issue.

June 20, 2024, The Bridgton News, Page

Baked potato and heat pumps

HARRISON — The next meeting of Resilient Harrison Maine is “Baked Potatoes and Heat Pumps” on Wednesday, June 26 at 6 p.m. at the United Parish Church, 77 Main Street in Harrison.

We all have favorite baked potato toppings. Bring one of yours (to share) and organizers will provide the potatoes, plus chili and salad!

Tim Adam from Ecoheat Maine will explain how heat pumps work, how they should be maintained, the

Public Notice

TOWN OF NAPLES

Board of Appeals Meeting

The Naples Board of Appeals will hold a meeting on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, at 6 p.m. at the Town Office Building located at 15 Village Green Lane. On the agenda:

Administrative Appeal — Road Name Change owned by Stephen and Deborah Malia for property found at Map R09 Lot 16A

Plans may be viewed online at www.townofnaples.org

Any questions or comments may be directed to Kathy Eddy via email at codeoffice@townofnaples.org

Public Notice

TOWN OF DENMARK

Notice of Public Hearing

Proposed Amendments to Ordinance Governing the Large Scale Pumping or Extraction of Groundwater, Springwater and/or Water from Aquifers within the Municipality of Denmark, Maine June 26, 2024 , 6 p.m.

Town Office Meeting Room

The Denmark Water Review Committee will be holding a Public Hearing to present their proposed amendments to the Water Extraction Ordinance. These proposed amendments will be submitted to the Select Board for consideration to accept or to further amend prior to adoption. Space is limited, therefore preference will be given to voting residents, non-voting residents and then general public.

A summary of the proposed amendments are listed below. A copy of the entire ordinance, including all proposed amendments may be viewed on the Town’s website or at the Town Office.

• Included more detailed requirements during the permit application/reapplication process (i.e. financial assurance, hydrogeological investigation, monitoring plan)

• Amendments were made to the Application Process which includes the timing of submittals, public hearings, and decision.

• The Town’s Technical Agent (i.e. Geologist) will review all documentation, data, reports, applications, etc… submitted by an applicant/permittee and provide their professional opinion to assist the Select Board in their decisions

• Details how Alert and Action Levels must be developed, regularly reviewed and notification requirements by the permittee when these levels are met or exceeded have been added. Specifics regarding Remedial actions by the permittee or cessation of activities are also included.

• Additional Performance standards were added, including Periodic Assessment, Data Collection and Reporting, Surveying and Flow Map/Netting.

• Performance Guarantee requirements were added, in the form of a surety bond which covers the scope of restoration, replacement and reclamation.

• Transfer of Ownership section was added, including notification requirements, document submittal and Select Board approval.

great rebates available from Efficiency Maine, and why this is a good time for new and existing heat pump owners to sign up for an estimate. There will be a Q&A session. For more information and to RSVP (so organizers can estimate potato numbers): call (207) 200-5316, e-mail ResilientHarrisonMaine@gmail.com, or check Facebook at Resilient Harrison Maine.

Public Notice

TOWN OF NAPLES

Edes Fall Dam Project Update

A public update on the Edes Falls Dam Removal Project will take place on Thursday, June 20, 2024, at 6 p.m. at the American Legion, 26 Casco Road, Naples

The Public is encouraged to attend. 1T25

Public Notice

TOWN OF DENMARK

The Town Office will be CLOSED the week of June 25 thru June 29 to close out the 2023/2024 fiscal year. The office will re-open on Tuesday, July 2. (The office will be open on Saturday, June 22 in lieu of Saturday, June 29)

The Town Office will be OPEN Wednesday, June 19 (Juneteenth) In observance of Independence Day, the Town office will be CLOSED Thursday, July 4 and Friday, July 5 3T25

Public Notice

TOWN OF NAPLES

Naples Select Board Public Hearing

The Naples Select Board will hold a public hearing on Monday, June 24, 2024, at 6 p.m. in the Town Office Building located at 15 Village Green Lane. On the agenda:

1. Entertainment Permit Application – Causeway Marina, to operate at 780 Roosevelt Trail (Map U02 Lot 039)

2. New Business License Application – Lake Region Carpentry, to operate at 30 Eggert Way (Map R06 Lot 013C)

The Public is encouraged to attend. 1T25

TOWN OF BRIDGTON 3 CHASE STREET, SUITE 1 BRIDGTON, MAINE 04009

PUBLIC NOTICE SENIOR TAX ASSISTANCE APPLICATIONS

Applications are now being accepted by the Town of Bridgton for the Senior Tax Assistance Program. Applications must be submitted by August 1, 2024, for review. Appointments will be scheduled as needed with applicants on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, to discuss eligibility.

Please call the Town Office at 207-647-8786 and ask for the Town of Bridgton Senior Tax Relief Program or send an email request to taxrelief@bridgtonmaine.org

The Senior Tax Assistance Ordinance, informational flyer, and copy of the application can be found on our website www.bridgtonmaine.org 2T25

Opinions

Can we handle the truth?

Independent Thought

by Rev. Robert Plaisted Guest Columnist

Myths, legends and tall tales are stories we tell ourselves to buttress our fragile egos. Myths tell us what we imagine ourselves to be, not what we actually are. Credulous people accept myths as truth, without questioning. I’ve never been one of them. I value myths for their cultural impact but, far more, I value the factual history lying behind them. Voltaire was more cynical. He allegedly quipped, “Tradition is the lies we tell to our grandchildren.”

The gap, between mythology and real life, formed the basis for a famous movie scene. In the 1992 film, A Few Good Men, Jack Nicholson played Marine Col. Nathan Jessep and Tom Cruise played Navy Lt. Daniel Kaffee. Two Marines were accused of beating to death a member of their unit. Col. Jessep was their commanding officer. Lt. Kaffee was the young Navy lawyer assigned to investigate and prosecute their court martial. Kaffee had a reputation for negotiating easy plea bargains, while he “let sleeping dogs lie.” His investigation, however, soon made him suspicious that people were lying about who was responsible for the young Marine’s death. So, he decided to call Col. Jessep as a witness.

A fierce confrontation ensued. Kaffee’s questioning gradually exposed inconsistencies in the colonel’s account of the murder, which led Jessep to snarl, “You want answers?” Kaffee snapped, “I want the truth!” Jessep bellowed, “You can’t handle the truth!” Then, he launched into a long monologue, extolling the classic military mythology of how a few brave men, standing guard on the walls of the nation, protect America against the bad guys. It’s the same imaginary disas-

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ter, which constantly gets invoked by the MAGA cult. Only they can hold back the onslaught of barbarism. Only they — one brave strongman and his followers — stand between America and catastrophe.

So, can we handle the truth? Like the fictitious Col. Jessep, MAGA-GUY is a self-created myth. Now that he’s a convicted felon, I’ll call him by his real name. The “real Donald Trump” is a real-life criminal. His mighty deeds are all slick mythology. The great strongman actually is a straw man and common crook. He’s a false prophet, leading us into a quicksand bog, from which we may never escape.

In the movie, Jessep finally admitted that he issued the illegal “Code Red” order, resulting in the fatal beating. He was immediately arrested, leaving the members of his unit to struggle with the truth about a criminally flawed commander, and a mythology gone horribly wrong. Here in America, our criminal ex-president never will admit he’s wrong. It’s not in his nature. It’s hard to imagine him repenting and turning honest.

From the beginning, believers in myths, and the dogma they generate, have competed with historians to write the record of things we do. Since their failed insurrection in January, 2020, MAGA cultists have stopped at nothing, in trying to convince the public that it never happened. According to their mythology, tourists walked peacefully between rope lines; nobody was armed; the real bad guys were Antifa and BLM members infiltrating the “patriots,” and those folks now in jail for insurrection will be pardoned by King Donald, once he reclaims his rightful presidency, which Joe Biden stole from him. It’s a bunch of lies, pure gaslighting.

So, here’s a question: Are you willing to vote for a convicted criminal to be the next President of the United States? We’ve just observed Memorial Day and the 80th anniversary of D-Day. Do you honestly think those thousands of brave men and women gave up their lives to make America safe for a common crook? If too many people believe that, we’re toast.

Rev. Robert Plaisted is a retired United Methodist clergyman, formerly of Bridgton and Bath, now residing in Auburn.

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Town Meeting

(Continued from Page 7B)

this year — is in fact only very partly used for hydrants and really accounts in the majority for a third of the budget of the Bridgton Water District. Surely, this line-item’s name is merely an oversight on behalf of whoever wrote the budget, but I certainly found it helpful to know and were it not for Annual Town Meeting many citizens might never have learned this. Ultimately, if we are vigilant and use the opportunity so provided to pry and delve and tinker into the budget of where our tax-dollars really go, we can all rest assured that nothing is getting by us without majority consent. Admittedly, at times, this has led both Bridgton and many other New England towns to some rather interesting political outcomes in the past. Say the public as a whole believe that county taxes are too high for the little they feel they get? Are the commissioners not receptive to their pleas for adjustments? Well then, Town Meeting’s the chance to really stick it to them. If every town said “no” all in one year, we’d really have them over a barrel. I’m not recommending this of course, but such is the power of Town Meeting and greater things have happened there. A budget can be as prettily constructed as a dream, but if the people don’t like it, it is theirs to vote against, to say “go back and draw it better, along these lines.” Otisfield used to be a part of Cumberland County you know — but not anymore. That process, long and complex though it was, started with an angry vote at Town Meeting over taxes, where the people voiced and enacted their will.

One hopes this recent low attendance is simply owing to a widespread sense of local trust in our town’s elders to manage our affairs, and that it does not instead arise out of mere disinterest. Whatever your reasons may be, I would urge everyone not in the habit of attending to reconsider. Annual Town Meeting is the one time of year when every citizen is given the opportunity to sit clothed in the authority of selfgovernance and deliberate as a legal body. If the people say “no” to an article, it does not pass. If the people in their wisdom wish to amend it, they have the sovereign right to do so. So, turn out next year, mark your calendars, bake a good oldfashioned ’Lection Cake and save a slice for me. I’ll be there. Till next time!

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Opinion & Comment

Annual Town Meeting

Howdy neighbor!

In Ye Olden Times

by Michael Davis BHS Assistant Director

Well now, did I see you at Town Meeting last week? If you’re a reader from Bridgton, I sure hope I did. But then again, seeing as we had just 62 citizens present — down from 69 last year — I must acknowledge my sadness at failing to find there many friends and neighbors who I had very much hoped to see. There’s always next year, of course, but in this case, I wanted to take the time to

once again review and uphold the tradition of Annual Town Meeting, seeing as I’ve become something of its champion in the last few years.

To open the discussion of just what Town Meeting is, and how it empowers the public and helps hold local governments accountable, we’ll be reviewing some of the leading figures at Town Meetings, new and old, ranging from the days when all 700 registered voters crammed into the Town House in the 1850s, right on down to the present. For though this year it was much as it had been lately; reserved, composed, and relatively quick, this is actually a very uncommon and recent historical trend. Within living memory were held Town Meetings that went on for six hours, or 12 hours, or spilled over on adjournments necessary to deliberate thorny articles at a later date. As recently as the 1980s, we had town meetings here which incited deliberations so intense as to require two days to complete, and surely our older readers will remember that fateful cry, “That’s it, no more seats, standing room only!”

Who can forget, having witnessed it year on year, the tough form of old Dominic Cardosi, sitting there all the way at the very back of Town Meeting, center-aisle against the wall, nodding sagely along with the articles until, prompted by some inner sense of duty to rise to a point of order or clarification. He would stand on the instant and let fly with so tremendous a burst of “Mr. MODERATOR” as to shake the very rafters of the Town House. He was always recognized, and often were his points worth hearing. They certainly generated discussion and debate at the very least. And how well do I remember my good neighbor and friend, Tom Doviak, lately removed out to Stoneham, who

How to protect the pollinators

Down the Garden Path

by Nancy Donovan, Ph.D., PT Master Gardener Volunteer

In 2008, the United States Senate approved the designation of one week in June as “National Pollinator Week.” June 17 through June 23 is Pollinator Week in 2024. The designation of Pollinator Week was initiated by the organization Pollinator Partnership in 1997. The mission of the organization, as stated on the website, “…is to promote the health of pollinators, critical to food and ecosystems, through conservation, education, and research.” (https:// www.pollinator.org/)

I urge readers to visit the website and read the information provided in the several categories/subtitles. While some of the science-based information can be depressing and disturbing, and, indeed, scary, the staff of the organization (biologists, ecologists, conservationists, research scientists, etc.) also do the research that provide actions that can be taken by us to protect the pollinators that are required for many of the foods we enjoy, for the beauty that engage our senses and calm us, and provide for a healthy and supportive ecosystem. Information provided by the staff of Pollinator Partnership remind readers that “Pollinators provide pollination services to over 180,000 different plant species and more than 1,200 crops. That means that 1 out of every three bites of food you eat is there because of pollinators”.

The website for the Pollinator Partnership outlines that “Pollinator Week 2024 is a celebration of the vital role that pollinators play in our ecosystems, economies, and agriculture. Under the inspiring theme ‘Vision 2040: Thriving

Letters to the Editor

Harrison Town Meeting

To The Editor: I would like to respond to Harrison’s annual town meeting held last Wednesday. A lot of people were upset with receiving their new valuation of their properties and fearful of the future of what this economy is bringing. I voted to reduce cost wherever we could. I want the town employees to know that it is not them. If the town manager’s salary were separate from the rest this would not have happened. This vote was a vote of no confidence, from me only, for the town manager’s inability to handle the people fairly and justly. Richard Sykes requested numerous times for budget information and has still not received anything, even though he filed a FOAA request. And the list goes on and on.

The other aspect is that we are paying the administrative assistant to work long and tedious hours trying to work to the town manager’s schedule. We are paying significant overtime.

I learned that the Community Fair at Crystal Lake was created by the town. When Old Home Days was operating, town employees did not work at this event, it was all volunteer. Trust me, I was there many days vol-

ecosystems, economies, and agriculture,’ this year’s event urges us to envision a future where pollinators not only survive but thrive. These essential creatures, including bees, butterflies, moths, bats, beetles, and hummingbirds, are the unsung heroes behind the food we enjoy and the beauty that surrounds us. As we reflect on the interconnectedness of our world, let’s unite in a collective effort to protect and preserve these crucial pollinators.”

While bees and butterflies and birds receive the most attention as pollinators, bats are also very important in our environment as they eat many of our irritating pests. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service published an article by Courtney Celley that is titled, “Bats are one of the most important misunderstood animals.” She wrote that “Bats play an essential role in pest control, pollinating plants and dispersing seeds… Across all agricultural production, consumption of insect pests by bats results in a savings of more than $3 billion per year. While many bats eat insects, others feed on nectar and provide critical pollination for a variety of plants like peaches, cloves, bananas and agaves. In fact, bats are the sole pollinator for the agave plant, a key ingredient in tequila!”

In a blog posted June 17 on the website titled, “Beyond Pesticides,” it was stated that, “Roughly a quarter of the global insect population has disappeared since 1990, according to research published in the journal Science. Monarchs are nearing extinction, and beekeepers continue to experience declines that are putting them out of business. We continue to lose mayflies, the foundation of many food chains, and fireflies, the foundation of many childhood summer memories. The declines in many bird species likely have

unteering for the greater good. If the town has approved for the pay of the counselors, then maybe, but the town is paying for the administrate staff overtime to be there. Am I the only one who didn’t know the Community Fair was created by the town? I can see the Recreation Department asking for this to happen but not the town manager’s office. The job of the town manager is to manage what the Select Board and the town has asked. I don’t know why the powers that be keep trying to force the issue of a full-time fire chief and equipment purchases. I agree with Wendell Scribner, can we put the money into repairs? We have voted at least twice saying “no” on the fire chief position, and at a future date, we may have to revisit it, but please not every single year. I was just aghast at the amount of money that they aren’t telling us we have and makes me wonder what they aren’t telling us. The town has always had CDs and has been in place quite a while ago. If I remember correctly, it was when Susan Searles was the chairman. Lastly, the town manager should stop micromanaging the employees. Employees tend to soar and exceed expectations when they are trusted to do the job they were hired to do. This is my opinion. It may or may not reflect other people’s opinion.

Renee Carter Harrison

close links to insect declines. Recent research finds that three billion birds, or 29% of bird abundance, have been lost since the 1970s.”

As a member of the committee of the University of Maine Extension Master Gardener Volunteers that reviews applications for certification of gardens as “PollinatorFriendly,” one action that we require is that applicants “… ensure pesticides are not used in the area being certified.”

Pesticides are used to kill weeds, insects, rodents, and/ or plant diseases and includes herbicides, insecticides, rodenticides, and fungicides. While it has been documented that any substance in each of those categories causes significant harm, including death, to pollinators, insecticides are the worst substances for pollinators.

In the June 21, 2023, blog entry on the “Beyond Pesticides” website, it was written that, “Past research finds that notorious bee-killing neonicotinoid insecticides kill bees outright, resulting in a range of complex damage, including their ability to impede bees’ olfactory senses and adversely affect their vision and flying ability.”

On May 25, 2022, the National Resources Defense Council published an article written by Courtney Lindwall and titled, “Neonicotinoids 101: The Effects on Humans and Bees.” The author informed that, “Neonics are a class of synthetic, neurotoxic insecticides that are used on agricultural crops, lawns, gardens, golf courses, and in flea and tick pet treatments. Developed in the mid1990s, neonics are now the single-most popular insecticide class in the United States.” The article continues: “… they’re some of the most-deadly pesticides ever created. The problem is that they kill indiscriminately, exterminating not only ‘pest’ insects but also countless butterflies, bees, and other wildlife.”

The article warns that neonicotinoids can remain in soil POLLINATORS, Page 8B

Disappointed

To The Editor: On Tuesday, June 11, 2024, Fryeburg voters went to the polls and defeated the proposed Municipal Complex. In my opinion, that was a short-sighted vote. We lost a $5 million bond to offset the cost. Yes, it was a big cost, but now it will cost the town even more in the long run. The current buildings are inadequate. We can’t hold large meetings in the town office; the fire department doesn’t meet code (ridiculous situation); we have had to clean our stored records once already, and now have to clean them again, and will have to pay to have them stored out of town. The police station is way too small. The rescue squad has been requesting for years to get the police relocated (as the building belongs to the rescue squad).

The new complex would have streamlined all departments into one location with the town maintenance across the driveway. It would have announced that Fryeburg was open for business. We could have sold the old fire station, the old town office, and the old town garage to add to the offset in cost of the new facility. The records would have been stored conveniently and safely in the town. Future costs to maintain and fix the old buildings is throwing good money away and with a band-aid approach.

We did not show our first responders that we support them to do a job

for the town that many aren’t willing to do but all expect when it is needed. Any new building(s) that are approved in the future is going to cost even more…it’s the way it is. Raising taxes is going to happen no matter what we do, but the Select Board and our town manager promised to do everything they could to keep the cost down and offset the final costs. They were already going for grants, and they had a plan in place to borrow wisely at a lower cost. Also, we have already spent to buy the land and do the preliminary proposal. Money down the drain at this point.

Finally, I’d like to voice my concern about the voters who didn’t exercise their constitutional right to vote. That only 22% of eligible voters did vote is disheartening. This was a big decision for the future of our town. Those who did not vote failed to be a part of that decision and our future leaving the complex to be defeated by less than 100 votes.

My apologies to all the first responders (including the town officials and committee members) that we failed to support you.

Kathleen McDonald Fryeburg

Where is the Weaponization?

To The Editor: Now that the president’s only living son has joined tfg on the list of

Americans found guilty of having committed a felony, you’d think that MAGA would be happier than clams at high tide…But they’re not, as now they — Susan Collins included — can no longer baselessly claim that the U.S. justice system is “rigged and weaponized” against their disgraced deranged presidential candidate when a jury of his peers (Hunter’s) found the sitting president’s son guilty like tfg, but this time in a real bona fide “witch-hunt” initiated by “45” himself.

Ongoing since 2018! — in anticipation of two (2) presidential candidate election cycles — former guy stooge and U.S. attorney appointee (by “45”) for Delaware David Weiss (lifelong Republican) has been investigating/witch hunting and looking for dirt on the “Biden crime family” via Hunter Biden in a thinly veiled partisan endeavor to humiliate his father; remember impeachment #1 and Ukraine? In 2023, Attorney General Merrick Garland caved to Republicans political demands that he appointed Weiss special counsel status in the “Hunter Derangement Syndrome” witch-hunt whereupon Weiss blew up a done-deal misdemeanor plea bargain prosecutors had offered the younger Biden. Now think about it you NRA folks. Is possession of guns by Hunter Biden — his Second Amendment right — a more egregious crime than espionage and conspiracy to steal government property and state secret documents — or even a fair elec-

BRADFORD WINN, a leading voice in Town Meeting in the 1880’s-1910’s. TOWN MEETING, Page 6B

Page 6B, The Bridgton News, June 20, 2024

Opinions

Look Back: Annual Town Meeting

(Continued from Page 5B)

for almost my whole life kept the famed Tom’s Homestead Restaurant on the corner of Pleasant Street. A quiet man ordinarily; devout, reserved, never one for idle chit-chat, but on Town Meeting Day, he was there sitting all the way up in the front row, over to the right, where prompted by any and all articles devoted to the budgeting of tax-payer dollars. He would rise, hat in hand, and issue his call to the moderator, solemnly moving to amend the motion on the floor reducing its sum a flat five percent. It did not matter what the cause; with Tom it was more a matter of principle. He felt as many of us still do that whatever the budget was, it was almost always more than the year before and shouldn’t be, and such motions as he perennially put forward stood as something of a check valve against runaway costs. A moderating influence on our yearly concessions to inflation and the high cost of things, and a weather eye against any hint of profligate spending. As I heard another say at Town Meeting some years back; we’re Mainers, we’re used to getting by on less, and if we all have to stretch our budgets at home then I don’t well see why we should expect our government to run any different. Use it up. Wear it out. Make it do. Or, do without.

~ Celebration of Life ~ Cathy Palmer

A celebration of life honoring Cathy Palmer will be held on Friday, June 28 at 10:30 a.m. at the Fellowship Hall of the First Congregational Church, South High Street, Bridgton. Parking at rear of church.

Although we’re all grieving, let’s take some time to be grateful for the years we had together. Come prepared to share your favorite memories and celebrate a very special life. Inviting all friends and colleagues to join us. Please RSVP to robin.nappi@ gmail.com or 207-595-0540 by June 25 so we can have a count for food.

Maxine Palmer and Robin Nappi would like to also thank all those who expressed sympathy and extended condolences to our family.

~ Graveside Service ~ Roland and Rose Estes

Graveside services for Roland and Rose Estes will be held on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at 10 a.m. at Webberbrook Cemetery in Oxford. Arrangements are under the care of Chandler Funeral Homes & Cremation Service, 45 Main Street, South Paris.

Maxine D. Palmer

Maxine Durgin Palmer died peacefully at home on June 16, 2024, after a life well lived. She was born in Portland, August 6, 1933, daughter of Robert and Katherine Paul Durgin. She grew up in Naples, and was graduated from Bridgton High School in 1951. In 1953, she married Carlton Palmer, and they enjoyed over 60 years together until his death in 2013.

She is survived by her beloved daughter, Robin Palmer Nappi of North Gorham and her husband, Carroll Nappi Jr. She was pre-deceased by her beloved daughter Cathy of Bridgton in April of this year. Following her wishes, arrangements are private. Those wishing a memorial: Do a good deed for someone in need, or give an old friend a big hug (she’d like that!).

Arrangements are in the care of the Hall Funeral Home in Casco where condolences and tributes may be shared at www.hallfuneralhome.net.

Stanley J. Brown

SWEDEN — Stanley J. Brown, 95, passed away peacefully in his sleep at The Landing in Cape Elizabeth. He was born December 4, 1928, in Unity N.H. The second eldest son of four born to Harrison and Josephine (Goewey) Brown. Growing up he worked at a farm while going to Stevens High School. After graduating he moved to Sweden, Maine, to take care of his uncle Benjamin Gerald.

It was during that time that he met his future wife Alice C. Tower. They married in 1950 then moved to their home on Berry Road in Sweden.

He was instrumental in forming the Sweden Volunteer Fire Dept. He was also a member of the Sweden Grange until it closed, then he and Alice joined the Bear Mt. Grange in South Waterford. He was initiated into the Mt. Tirem Lodge #132 in October of 1977 and then attended Delta Lodge #153 in Lovell.

He was an active member of the Sweden Community Church and then the South Bridgton Church. They were also members of the Crazy 8’s square dance club where they made many lifelong friends.

Always an avid gardener, he worked many hours in the greenhouse he build in 1960. His love for growing plants of all kinds continued throughout his life, even when he moved to The Landing in 2023 he had a small garden that he could see from his window.

He is predeceased by his parents Harrison and Josephine Brown, his beloved wife Alice, brothers Sidney and Benjamin Brown.

He is survived by his brother Raymond Brown, sisters-inlaw Irene Tower, and Anna Brown; his children Linda Dutil of Sweden, her children Jacob and wife Jasey Stetser, Laura and husband Christopher Gerry, Sandra and husband Donald Dolan of Las Vegas Nev., her children Philip and his wife Tania Tingley, John and Rebecca Tingley, Melissa and Mike May, Amanda and Gabrial Hadden, Stanley and wife Jackie Brown of Falls Church, Va., his daughter Laura and Kelvin Taylor, Susan and husband Wayne of Summerfield Fla., and their son Scott and wife Janet Farrington. Thirteen great- grandchildren Brandon, Hailey and Dylan Capano, Martina, Tristen and Arianna Tingley, Issack, Ethan and Austin May, Gia Hadden, Austin, Brady and Addison Farrington. And great-great-grandson Emmett May. Also many beloved nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, June 21 at the Lovell VFW Hall, Smarts Hill Rd., Lovell at 2 p.m. Donations in Stanley’s memory can be made to the Delta Lodge #153 in Lovell, or another worthy charity. Arrangements are under the care of Chandler Funeral Home and Cremation Services 8 Elm ST, Bridgton ME. To make an online condolence please visit www.chandlerfunerals.com.

Of course no review of recent years is complete without a mention of Jim Cossey, who this year sat right behind me with his wife Beth, ready to continue what he has since made a tradition at Bridgton’s Town Meeting; calculating just when it should be appropriate to initiate his annual motion that after the articles apportioning taxpayer money are all cleared from the warrant, settled and voted and laid in their graves for another year, he will rise to move that the remaining slate of articles — typically housekeeping formalities seeking the voter’s approval to authorize the Select Board to carry out business like selling property, entering contracts, accepting gifts, etc. — be considered as a whole and voted on as a single block. It is a great time-saver and a canny political move which the voters never object to passing in the end, though often there is deliberation made over points in certain articles and discussion is of course still permitted in case the townsfolk should have any objections. We got done in 44 minutes this year.

When I was young, my family sometimes brought me to Town Meeting; I can’t say it was every year but we went a good amount of the time and looking back I wonder how early this began. Because it is for many households a family affair and children often accompany their parents, for though they cannot yet vote the whole experience makes for an excellent object lesson in truth, justice and the American way — or at least a worthy demonstration of civics and politics. So, children often attend, and at times new mothers naturally brought infants which cannot be left at home. I wonder then if I was once among that certain number of very young people

Obituaries

Gerald A. Ross

December 24, 1949 – June 13, 2024

Gerald (Gerry) Arthur Ross, adoringly known as “Papa,” left us on the evening of Thursday, June 13th, after a brief, but courageous battle with leukemia. He was surrounded by his four loving daughters and devoted wife, as he left this earth at peace.

The fourth of six children, Papa was born in Springfield, Mass., to Edwin Oscar and Katherine (Dupont) Ross. He attended Springfield Technical High School, and went on to New York Maritime College where he met many of his dearest lifelong friends. After graduating, he traveled the world; shipping out to Europe, the Caribbean and South America. In 1973, he was honorably discharged from the U.S. Navy to return home to care for his family when his father became terminally ill. He soon took over the family business, E.O. Ross Electric; a business he would run locally in western Massachusetts with integrity and dedication until his very last day.

In Springfield, he met the love of his life and wife of 44 wonderful years, Ruth (Mackechnie) Ross. They moved to 931 Longmeadow Street and started their life together, welcoming four daughters in six short years: Stephanie, Karin, Amy and Jenna. Longmeadow Street was a home where all were welcome, all the time. Neighbors, friends and family often dropped in for a cup of coffee, a Pabst Blue Ribbon or a glass of boxed wine around the kitchen table.

In 1987, Papa bought land in Bridgton, and built a house on the trailside of Pleasant Mountain overlooking Moose Pond, emulating the camp his father built when he was a child himself. Over the years, much like Longmeadow Street, Gerry and Ruth opened the Maine home to countless family and friends. Filled with laughter and love, Maine quickly became Papa’s happy place. His dry sense of humor and unique wit could often keep that laughter going until the early hours of the morning. In his younger years, he was on the ski slopes with his family and slalom water skiing off Pier 9 dock. During the summertime, he drove his Boston Whaler around the lake towing his girls, nieces, nephews, neighbors and friends on the tube, waterskis and wakeboards. With a backwards hat and a smile on his face, he circled the lake for hours, never phased by the number of tries it took to get someone up (38 times was the record). Until the end of his life, he spent his days mowing and weed whacking the hills, reseeding the grass, and cutting and splitting wood for the annual wood weekend. Any given night he could be found in a predictable routine of reading his newspapers and watching the nightly news with his mason jar of Carlo Rossi Paisano in hand. His favorite spot was his chair on the deck, overlooking the lake and soaking in the view.

Papa’s four daughters were his world, daily phone calls continuing into every phase of their lives, whether just checking who’d arrive in Maine on time for a Friday night dinner, or imparting his pragmatic wisdom unto more significant matters. Over the years, people often quipped “Four girls? No boys?” to which Papa, without missing a beat, would retort “Girls are the best.” His eight grandchildren were also the apple of his eye. Papa rang the “Happy Bell” each time they arrived in Maine and the “Thad Thumper” when they left. He adored every one of them and shared special bonds with each; holding down the back aft of the boat with Spencer, hours of leaf blowing with Johnny, whipped cream shots washed down by Hawaiian punch with Luke, coloring with Alexandra while wearing his perennial Santa hat, starting fires in the fireplace with Patrick’s help, watching the ABC nightly news with Molly on his lap, eating pasta Ladyin-the-Tramp style with Samantha, and bottles with Will: milk for Will, PBRs for Papa. For the last three years, his grandpup Easton-girl was his constant companion, whether in the yard or on the couch.

In addition to his devoted bride, four daughters and eight cherished grandchildren; he also leaves behind three sons-inlaw, Ryan, Matt and Chris; his siblings Bobby, Peter and Linda and their spouses; and many adoring nieces and nephews. His absence will be felt by many of his lifelong friends including his Most Beloved Friend Gary, his shipmate Daddy Duke, and Ralph, his colleague of 33 years who he lovingly referred to as his son. We find comfort in knowing he has joined many loved ones in eternal life; Pepe, Meme, his sister Christine, brother Eddie, and his dear friend Harry.

Papa was a family man. He was a person of integrity, honesty and unspoken generosity. We find solace in a post-it he had pinned to his bulletin board which read “When someone dies close to you, they take a piece of you with them; they also leave a piece of them with you.” The love he leaves is his greatest legacy. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you drink a Pabst Blue Ribbon in his honor and hug your dad. And if you are able, please consider donating blood or registering for the bone marrow donor database at www.bethematch.org. Details for a Celebration of Life honoring Papa will be forthcoming.

who, even as infants, boldly rose to make their voice heard at Town Meeting when only a year or two old. Though my historical leanings certainly play a part in influencing me to act today, I do also credit having grown up at Town Meetings as a large influence in what now motivates me to engage in local politics, to have run for office and serve on town committees. I want now to look a little further back in time, to a bygone character once synonymous with Town Meeting in Bridgton. Ladies and gentleman, please allow me to introduce our venerable bygone citizen, Bradford Winn of Bridgton’s New Limington district; a man who for decades stood as the unargued leading voice at Annual Town Meeting. Because even putting aside all other aspects of his life — master carpenter, veteran of the Civil War, superintendent of the Town Farm, and a good man besides — the exploits of Mr. Winn at Bridgton’s Annual Town Meeting over roughly 40 years from the 1880s to the 1910s are already enough to firmly cement his place in our town’s history. For here was the rare man possessing not only strength of will enough to stand up and make his opinions known in the face of adversity, but who also TOWN MEETING, Page 7B

Normand R. Pelletier

Normand Roger Pelletier was born in Salem, Mass., on May 25, 1958. Born the son of the late Anita (Ouellette) Pelletier and Real Pelletier, he was the oldest amongst five brothers and sisters — Elaine, Kenny, Janice, and Daniel. The family grew up together in the Castle Hill Neighborhood in Salem and were active in the St. Anne’s Church community.

Normand attended Essex Agricultural and Technical Institute (Essex Aggie) for high school in Danvers, Mass. He graduated in 1976 as an ornamental horticulture major and had his own landscaping and small engine repair business for years.

Normand met his first wife Vickie (Carlson) Pelletier, formerly of Haverhill, Mass., during their high school years at Essex Aggie, and they were married on November 12, 1978. Normand and Vickie grew to become a family of five by 1983 after becoming first time parents to Danielle, Nicole and Stephanie. Although having three children so close together, Normand embraced the family life of being actively involved with his girls’ sports lives. If he wasn’t coaching, he was running the girls from sport to sport, practices to games, sometimes seven days a week. The family took yearly summer vacations to Conway Lake where they rented a chalet from a family friend. The family would go fishing off the dock, walk up the road to go swimming at the public beach, take day trips to Storyland or Whale’s Tale Water Park, hike or take the auto ride up Mount Washington. This created years of memories that his family still holds dearly, to this current day.

Normand was an avid ice skater, and hockey player. He enjoyed his time playing in a men’s hockey league but what he enjoyed the most was taking his three girls ice skating. He loved to scoop the girls in his arms, one at a time, holding them low to the ice with their skates down and zip them around and around the rink. The family spent many memorable Friday nights together at the rink.

Normand was also a big time marathon runner. He and his best friend, Larry would scour the practice course a day before their training runs and hide bottles of water all over the course. Normand also shared a love for running with his daughter, Nicole. When she was 10 years old, they took on local 5K courses together where they bonded through training for these racing events. They spent hours running together that felt like only seconds to them. It wasn’t until Normand broke his leg playing soccer that would end his running career.

Once healed from his broken leg and knowing it would not be the same, he picked up a love for refereeing soccer games. He refereed a variety of games and tournaments and took great pride in being part of the referee crew that officiated the Massachusetts state championships. He loved sharing stories of angry coaches to red carding players to yelling parents on the sidelines. The adversity never bothered him, as he enjoyed what he was doing and found it to be part of the game.

Shortly after Normand and Vickie divorced, Normand met his recent wife Cathy (Rudolph) Sampson of Sudbury, Mass. They lived in Massachusetts for a short time until they built a house and moved to Bridgton. Together, Normand and Cathy shared a love for cooking and gardening. They were always finding new recipes to try together and cook together. They enjoyed taking time off from work together and shared a variety of weekends away and vacations themselves.

Normand adopted an additional family upon marrying Cathy. He became close with Cathy’s parents William and Barbara Rudolph of Bridgton, her son, Drew and daughter, Nicole. And in later years, their spouses — Jessica (Drew) and Tim (Nicole). Then came the grandchildren — Takoda and Emma (Drew and Jessica) and Olivia and Colton (Nicole and Tim).

If you didn’t find Normand occupied around outside the house, you could find him spending time with his grandkids who he absolutely adored.

Normand took pride in their home’s landscaping and outdoor spaces. If he wasn’t riding around on his John Deere, he would be fighting the pesky groundhog that was eating all the plants in his garden.

Normand was always a hard worker and took great satisfaction in the work that he did. Although work wasn’t his life, it was always an important part of what he did to support his family.

When he wasn’t working or around family, Normand was “out with the guys” on the golf course. Jerry, Jose, and Mike were longtime referee buddies that transformed into great friends and golf comrades. Normand always enjoyed their annual golf trips together.

Normand passed away suddenly on the morning of May 20, 2024. Although the culmination of his life ended unexpectedly, he is leaving behind years of memories, along with family and friends that know they were truly loved by him.

Normand is survived by his wife Cathy Sampson (Rudolph) and her children Drew Sampson and his wife Jessica of Lebanon, Maine, Nicole Cadman and her husband Tim of Framingham, Mass. His ex-wife Vickie (Carlson) Pelletier and their three daughters Danielle (Legault) and her husband and their two daughters of Peabody, Mass., Nicole (Rapkowicz) and her husband, Jeremy of Lyndonville, Vt., and Stephanie (Stapley) and her husband Kendall of Meredith, N.H. Normand’s siblings Elaine (Bonaiuto) and her husband Joseph of Beverly, Mass., Janice Pelletier of Salem, Mass., Kenny Pelletier and his wife Kim (Sanborn) of Denmark, and Daniel Pelletier and his wife Lisa (Beausoleil) of Salem, Mass. Nieces Grace Bonaiuto of Beverly, Mass., Ashley Marsh (Pelletier) of Beverly, Mass., Tricia Pelletier of Salem, Mass., and nephews Nathan Bonaiuto of Amesbury, Mass., and Jacob Pelletier of Salem, Mass.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date for close family and friends.

Page 8B, The Bridgton

June 20, 2024

Opinions

How to protect the pollinators

for years and that rainwater can transport them distances away from the original site. Ms Lindwall explains that, “The way they work is by permanently binding to the nerve cells of insects, overstimulating and destroying them. Exposed insects often exhibit uncontrollable shaking and twitching followed by paralysis before eventually dying. Even at nonlethal doses, neonics can weaken critical functions, such as an insect’s immune system, navigation, stamina, memory, and fertility.”

Lewis, a Tufts University biologist and author of “Silent Sparks: The Wondrous World of Fireflies” wrote that fireflies are “…the gateway bug for illuminating the need to protect” the rest of the natural world.”

noids on the plants. If they say “yes,” or if they do not know, then do not buy the plants.

David Goulson, PhD, in a book titled, “Silent Earth: Averting the Insect Apocalypse,” wrote, “We have to learn to live in harmony with nature, seeing ourselves as part of it, not trying to rule and control it with an iron fist. Our survival depends on it, as does that of the glorious pageant of life with which we share out planet.” And, I would add, what about that tequila?

One activity I recommend during this Pollinator Week is for each reader to spend a couple hours, or more, counting the number of pollinators that you see. But, don’t bring them inside. Leave them outside with their families. (Continued

Last night, as friends were leaving my home after our game night evening, I smiled when I saw what I call “nature’s fireworks” provided by fireflies. I turned out all the lights in the house and watched the twinkling show. I was reminded of the time when I lived in East Auburn surrounded only by fields and meadows. Of course, my brother and I could catch the fireflies in our hands because they were so abundant. While we would have brought them inside, my mother taught us the importance of leaving them outside “with their families”.

In a brief news summary for Virginia Tech, the work of Eric Day, an entomologist who is the head of the insect ID lab, commented that “…housing and commercial development are the biggest threats to firefly habitat loss. This includes artificial lighting.” He continued to add that increased development results in fewer fireflies due to habitat loss. During the interview, Day commented that if fireflies are desired in a landscape, homeowners should not spray pesticides and herbicides, and that some weeds should be tolerated. Day advised that, “The presence of fireflies indicates a diverse habitat and doing these things is essential to ensuring future generations can enjoy the natural wonder of skies lit up by them.” In the article he pointed out that “… highly manicured lawns rarely have fireflies.”

The Washington Post published an article written by Dino Grandino on June 30, 2023. He informed that Sara

GREENHOUSE MALL for rain or shine gardeners

Actions that can be taken by home gardeners to support pollinators can be found on the Maine Extension application for Pollinator Garden Certification https://extension.umaine.edu/gardening/pollinator-garden-certification/ application/. A few actions that readers can take as a result of information in this column include:

• Leave some native weeds in place as they may support the native pollinators.

• If weeds must be removed, remove them by pulling them from soil by hand.

• Turn outside lights off to support moths, fireflies, etc.

Ensure that your garden has flowering plants during early season (April, May, June), mid-season (July, Aug), and late season (September, October). Readers can find lists on the Pollinator Certification Application.

• Consider putting up a bat house and bee houses.

• Ask the owners of plant-selling organizations (nurseries, greenhouses, big box stores, etc.) if they use neonicoti-

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MALL

Letters to the Editor

(Continued from Page 5B)

tion — by an impeached, convicted, Adderall abusing felon now monitored by a female probation officer?

Jon St. Laurent North Windham

P.S. Sally Chappell’s views on immigration published June 13 were an enlightening and refreshing change from those tiresomely expressed weekin-week-out by the unenlightened.

Defeat the cult

To The Editor:

The 80th anniversary of “D-Day” enables an interesting contrast between 1944 and 2024. On June 6, 1944, Americans landed in France to defeat Hitler, fascism and

to restore democracy. Today, the previous guy is leading his sycophant MAGA cult in destroying democracy to establish an autocratic dictatorship in America. The previous guy calls veterans, “suckers and losers.” On June 6, young Americans gave their lives to defend democracy! On June 6, 1944, Americans brought a force of arms to defeat Hitler. On Jan. 21, 2021, the MAGA cult brought violence to our nation’s capital to put a Hitler wannabe into power. We Independent voters can’t pick up arms to defend our democracy, but we can and must pick up our ballots and vote to defeat the entire cult of MAGA suckers and losers!

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ANTJE DUVEKOT

ANTJE DUVEKOT

June 22, 2024, 7:30 pm

June 22, 2024, 7:30 pm

June 22, 2024, 7:30 pm

June 22, 2024, 7:30 pm

Antje Duvekot recently unveiled her fifth studio album, “New Wild West”.

Antje Duvekot recently unveiled her fifth studio album, “New Wild West”.

Antje Duvekot recently unveiled her fifth studio album, “New Wild West”.

Antje Duvekot recently unveiled her fifth studio album, “New Wild

Antje Duvekot recently unveiled her fifth studio album, “New Wild West”.

Antje Duvekot recently unveiled her fifth studio album, “New Wild West”.

Yet another testament to the powerhouse that is Antje Duvekot, “New Wild West” is a sonic and lyrical knockout that marks a newly blazed trail in Duvekot’s songwriting career, celebrating the mid-life transition into a greater sense of self.

Yet another testament to the powerhouse that is Antje Duvekot, “New Wild West” is a sonic and lyrical knockout that marks a newly blazed trail s songwriting career, celebrating the life transition into a greater sense self.

Yet another testament to the powerhouse that is Antje Duvekot, “New Wild West” is a sonic and lyrical knockout that marks a newly blazed trail in Duvekot’s songwriting career, celebrating the mid-life transition into a greater sense of self.

Yet another testament to the powerhouse that is Antje Duvekot, a sonic and lyrical knockout that marks a newly blazed trail in Duvekot’s songwriting career, celebrating the mid-life transition into a greater sense of self.

Yet another testament to the powerhouse that is Antje Duvekot, “New Wild West” is a sonic and lyrical knockout that marks a newly blazed trail in Duvekot’s songwriting career, celebrating the mid-life transition into a greater sense of self.

Yet another testament to the powerhouse that is Antje Duvekot, “New Wild West” is a sonic and lyrical knockout that marks a newly blazed trail in Duvekot s songwriting career, celebrating the mid-life transition into a greater sense of self.

Recorded by her friend, Mark Erelli, it is considered by some to be her best in her 20plus year career.

Recorded by her Erelli, it is considered by some to be best 20plus year career.

Recorded by her friend, Mark Erelli, it is considered by some to be her best in her 20plus year career.

Recorded by her friend, Mark Erelli, it is considered by some to be her best in her 20plus year career.

Recorded by her friend, Mark Erelli, it is considered by some to be her best in her 20plus year career.

Recorded by her friend, Mark Erelli, it is considered by some to be her best in her 20plus year career.

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Joseph W. Angelo Bridgton

95 Sanborns Grove Road, Bridgton, ME

ANTJE DUVEKOT